Amphetamines

/æmˈfɛtəmiːnz/ noun

Definition

Stimulant drugs that increase alertness and energy by affecting the brain's chemistry, used medically for ADHD but also abused recreationally.

Etymology

From 'alpha-methylphenethylamine,' shortened to amphetamine. Synthesized in 1887 Germany, the name comes from the chemical structure's Greek-derived elements.

Kelly Says

Amphetamines were given to soldiers in World War II to fight fatigue—pilots nicknamed them 'pep pills,' but the addiction and side effects afterward made everyone realize stimulants have serious costs!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.