cocaine

noun

co·​caine kō-ˈkān How to pronounce cocaine (audio)
ˈkō-ˌkān
: a bitter crystalline alkaloid C17H21NO4 obtained from coca leaves that is used especially in the form of its hydrochloride medically as a topical anesthetic and illicitly for its euphoric effects and that may result in a compulsive psychological need

Examples of cocaine in a Sentence

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Felix Jimenez, 38, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a charge that carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, but can be up to 40 years, according to federal authorities. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 1 Aug. 2026 Authorities say individuals have been detained as part of the investigation and warn that more of the tainted cocaine may have been sold in the area. — Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 31 July 2026 Maduro is currently in a New York jail and due to stand trial in June 2027 on charges of narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine trafficking. — Catherine Ellis, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026 Investigators said Summers was using his phone extensively before the crash, driving 73-75 mph, and tested positive for cocaine and opiates. — Chadd Cripe. Produced With Ai Assistance, Idaho Statesman, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cocaine

Word History

First Known Use

1860, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cocaine was in 1860

Phrases Containing cocaine

Rhymes for cocaine

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Browse Nearby Words

coca
cocaine
cocaine family
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Cite this Entry

“Cocaine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cocaine. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cocaine

noun
co·​caine kō-ˈkān How to pronounce cocaine (audio)
ˈkō-ˌkān
: a bitter habit-forming drug obtained from coca leaves and used in medicine to deaden pain and illegally for its euphoric effects

Medical Definition

cocaine

noun
co·​caine kō-ˈkān, ˈkō-ˌ How to pronounce cocaine (audio)
: a bitter crystalline alkaloid C17H21NO4 obtained from coca leaves that is used medically especially in the form of its hydrochloride C17H21NO4·HCl as a topical anesthetic and illicitly for its euphoric effects and that may result in a compulsive psychological need

More from Merriam-Webster on cocaine

Nglish: Translation of cocaine for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cocaine

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