sedation

noun

se·​da·​tion si-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce sedation (audio)
1
: the inducing of a relaxed easy state especially by the use of sedatives
2
: a state resulting from or as if from sedation

Examples of sedation in a Sentence

For some patients, sedation may be necessary.
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.
It is also known to cause side effects, including drowsiness, sedation and dizziness. Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 12 June 2026 The album is filled with narrators who either beg to be freed from their pain or who, more often than not, are being beaten into sedation. Mankaprr Conteh, Pitchfork, 8 June 2026 The egg freezing procedure involves appointments, around seven to 10 days of hormone injections to stimulate egg production, followed by a minor one-day operation under sedation for the retrieval of the eggs. Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 27 May 2026 In medicine, it is used for sedation and pain control, including in dentistry and in operating rooms. Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for sedation

Word History

First Known Use

1543, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sedation was in 1543

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Cite this Entry

“Sedation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sedation. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.

Medical Definition

sedation

noun
se·​da·​tion si-ˈdā-shən How to pronounce sedation (audio)
1
: the inducing of a relaxed easy state especially by the use of sedatives
2
: a state resulting from sedation see conscious sedation, deep sedation

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