Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

laudanum

noun

/ˈlɔːd(ə)nəm/

Definition

A tincture of opium, used historically as a painkiller and sedative.

Examples

In the 19th century, laudanum was frequently prescribed to patients suffering from chronic pain.
She took laudanum to help her sleep through the night.
Writers of the Romantic era often mentioned laudanum in their works due to its widespread use.

Meaning

Laudanum is a potent narcotic that was commonly used in the past for its analgesic and calming properties. It is derived from opium and contains alkaloids like morphine and codeine.