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.
Orexin antagonists were developed as a treatment for insomnia, differing from conventional sleeping pills that induce sedation. — Harriet Marsden, TheWeek, 20 Aug. 2026 The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners later wrote that Hemphill failed to account for the way Demerol would interact with nitrous oxide gas and two other sedation drugs. — Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Aug. 2026 Doctors used either topical anesthesia or mild sedation depending on the patient. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 19 Aug. 2026 In 2024, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts proposed deeming anesthesia in colonoscopies medically unnecessary, which would have forced patients to pay out of pocket for sedation. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 19 Aug. 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

Rhymes for sedation

See All Rhymes for sedation

Browse Nearby Words

sedateness
sedation
sedative
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Cite this Entry

“Sedation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sedation. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Copy Citation

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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