I. ˈsedəd.iv, -ətiv adjective
Etymology: French or Medieval Latin; French sédatif, from Medieval Latin sedativus, from Latin sedatus (past participle of sedare to calm) + -ivus -ive — more at sedate
: tending to calm, moderate, or tranquilize ; specifically : allaying irritability, nervousness, or excitement
II. noun
( -s )
: a sedative agent ; specifically : a drug that allays irritability, nervousness, or excitement