benzodiazepine

noun

ben·​zo·​di·​az·​e·​pine ˌben-zō-dī-ˈa-zə-ˌpēn How to pronounce benzodiazepine (audio)
: any of a group of aromatic lipophilic amines (such as diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) used especially as tranquilizers

Examples of benzodiazepine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Additionally, during attempts to revive the girl, Hemphill administered Flumazenil, which is a reversal drug intended for benzodiazepines, according to the warrant. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Aug. 2026 Though he’s never been drugged with scopolamine, he was sedated with benzodiazepines and robbed several years ago, and has devoted much of his channel to warning tourists about the risks. — Mattha Busby, Rolling Stone, 19 Aug. 2026 In early November, Tufts and Clancy agreed on a plan to taper her off the benzodiazepine, which the psychiatrist said has a risk of dependency. — Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026 Dukes told jurors that Clancy expressed concerns about being addicted to benzodiazepines, but did not show obvious signs of mania or psychosis. — ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for benzodiazepine

Word History

Etymology

benz- + di- + az- + -epine (from hepta- + -ine entry 2)

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of benzodiazepine was in 1934

Rhymes for benzodiazepine

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Browse Nearby Words

benzocaine
benzodiazepine
benzodioxan
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Cite this Entry

“Benzodiazepine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/benzodiazepine. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

benzodiazepine

noun
ben·​zo·​di·​az·​e·​pine ˌben-zō-dī-ˈaz-ə-ˌpēn How to pronounce benzodiazepine (audio)
: any of a group of aromatic lipophilic amines (as diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) used especially as tranquilizers

More from Merriam-Webster on benzodiazepine

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about benzodiazepine

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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