inhalant

[ in-hey-luhnt ]

noun

1. a medicine, allergen, or other substance that is inhaled.
2. any volatile substance, as nitrous oxide, butyl nitrite, toluene, gasoline, or paint thinner, capable of being inhaled, sometimes abused for its intoxicating effect.
3. inhaler.

adjective

1. used for inhaling.

inhalant

/ ɪnˈheɪlənt /

adjective

1. (esp of a volatile medicinal formulation) inhaled for its soothing or therapeutic effect
2. inhaling

noun

1. an inhalant medicinal formulation

Word History and Origins

Origin of inhalant¹

First recorded in 1815–25; inhale + -ant

Example Sentences

For consumption he provided an inhalant; for rheumatic conditions, a liniment.

From Project Gutenberg

One method employed by Ugo da Lucca consisted of the use of an inhalant.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• opiate