kratom

American  

[krey-tuhm, krot-uhm] / ˈkreɪ təm, ˈkrɒt əm /

noun

1. a Southeast Asian evergreen tree (Mitragyna speciosa) of the coffee family, whose leaves contain a psychoactive substance.

2. the leaves of Mitragyna speciosa, or the psychoactive substance they contain: used in various forms as a mood enhancer, pain reliever, etc., or in higher doses as a sedative with opioid-like effects.

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Etymology

Origin of kratom

First recorded in 1920–25; from Thai krathom

Example Sentences

Public health officials and advocates are divided on kratom.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 4, 2026

Last year, California was on its way to having statewide regulation for kratom products.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 20, 2025

It was backed by the Global Kratom Coalition, whose executive director, Matthew Lowe, argued kratom products should have an alkaloid content similar to the natural plant that has long been used.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 15, 2024

A California bill that would have imposed regulations on kratom products was quietly shelved Thursday following a clash between advocacy groups focused on the burgeoning industry.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 15, 2024

Li said the method's accuracy opens the door for a more efficient discovery process and continued research on the kratom tree.

From Science Daily • Oct. 18, 2023