benzodiazepines
noun/ˌbɛnzoʊdaɪˈæzəpiːnz/
Frequency rank: #17,827 most common English word
Meaning
A class of psychoactive drugs that enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, commonly used as sedatives, anxiolytics, or anticonvulsants.

Example sentence
Doctors sometimes prescribe benzodiazepines to help patients manage severe anxiety or sleep disorders.
Synonyms & related words
- tranquilizers
- sedatives
- anxiolytics
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 17,801–17,900
- asphyxiationA condition in which the body is deprived of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death; suffocation.
- backstrokeA swimming stroke performed on one's back, with both arms lifted alternately out of the water and the legs doing a flutter kick.
- balsamA fragrant, resinous substance obtained from certain plants, used in medicine and perfumery.
- barbellA long metal bar with weights attached at each end, used for weightlifting exercises.
- barbicanan outer fortification or tower defending the entrance to a castle or city.
- bilingualismThe ability to speak and use two languages fluently.
- bobbleto momentarily fumble or mishandle something, nearly dropping it.
- bobsleighA large, mechanically steered sled used for racing down an icy track, typically carrying two or four people.
- bolaA throwing weapon made of weights on interconnected cords, used to entangle animals.
- boxyHaving a square or rectangular shape that looks rigid and lacks curves.