depressant crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "depressant". Whether you need a quick answer or a detailed explanation, we've got you covered. Dive in to complete your puzzle with confidence!
Solutions for "depressant crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
OPIATE: A narcotic drug derived from opium, often causing drowsiness and pain relief, which acts as a central nervous system depressant.
DOWNER: An informal term for a substance, especially a drug, that acts as a sedative or tranquilizer, causing relaxation and reduced activity.
8 Letters
SEDATIVE: A drug taken for its calming or sleep-inducing effect, which functions by depressing the central nervous system.
11 Letters
BARBITURATE: Any of a class of synthetic drugs derived from barbituric acid, extensively used as sedatives and hypnotics, acting as powerful central nervous system depressants.
More About "depressant crossword clue"
The term "depressant" in crossword puzzles typically refers to substances that slow down brain activity and the central nervous system. These can range from medical drugs used to treat anxiety or insomnia, to recreational substances. Clues often hint at the effect, such as "calming agent," "sleep inducer," or "tranquilizer." Understanding the various categories of depressants—like sedatives, hypnotics, opiates, and anxiolytics—can give you a distinct advantage.
When encountering this clue, consider the number of letters first, as many different terms can fit. For example, a shorter answer might be OPIATE or DOWNER, while longer ones could be SEDATIVE or BARBITURATE. Context from surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can also provide vital hints, narrowing down the possibilities. Always think about both formal medical terms and more colloquial expressions that might be used.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This is the first and most crucial step, as it significantly narrows down the possibilities for "depressant."
- Consider Synonyms and Slang: Crossword setters often use synonyms, related terms, or even slang. For "depressant," think about words like tranquilizer, sedative, downer, or even specific drug classes like opiate.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters you fill in from other clues can provide critical hints for "depressant." If an intersecting word gives you an 'A' at a certain position, it immediately rules out answers that don't fit.
- Think About Context: Sometimes, the puzzle's theme or other clues can give you a subtle hint about the type of answer expected. Is it a medical puzzle, or more general?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of drug is typically clued as a 'depressant' in crosswords?
In crosswords, a 'depressant' often refers to drugs like sedatives, opiates, or tranquilizers. Common answers might include OPIATE, SEDATIVE, or BARBITURATE, depending on the number of letters required.
Are there slang terms for depressants used in crossword clues?
Yes, informal terms can appear. 'DOWNER' is a common slang term for a depressant that frequently appears in crossword puzzles.
How can I distinguish between similar drug clues in crosswords?
The number of letters is key. Also, pay attention to surrounding words or the puzzle's theme. For 'depressant,' think about its specific effects like calming, sleep-inducing, or pain relief, which can hint at the more precise type of drug needed (e.g., opiate vs. stimulant).