what does opioid mean
opiate oÂ·piÂ·ate (Å'pÄ-Ä­t, -Ät') n. Any of various sedative narcotics that contain opium or one or more of its natural or synthetic derivatives. A drug, hormone, or other chemical substance that has sedative or narcotic effects similar to those containing opium or its derivatives. Also called opioid. adj. Of or containing opium or any of its derivatives. Resembling opium or its derivatives in activity. Inducing sleep or sedation; soporific. v. oÂ·piÂ·atÂ·ed, oÂ·piÂ·atÂ·ing, oÂ·piÂ·ates (-Ät') To subject to the action of an opiate.