amphetamine

noun

am·​phet·​amine am-ˈfe-tə-ˌmēn 

-mən

: a racemic compound C₉H₁₃N or one of its derivatives (such as dextroamphetamine or methamphetamine) that is a stimulant of the central nervous system, is often abused illicitly, and is used clinically especially in the form of its sulfate C₉H₁₃N·H₂SO₄ to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy and formerly as a short-term appetite suppressant

Examples of amphetamine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Romero’s toxicology report showed positive findings for ephedrine, phenylpropanolamine, amphetamine and methamphetamine, DOJ’s report stated. —Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Apr. 2026

Officers also found the amphetamine pill in his pocket, the affidavit states. —David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 16 Apr. 2026

The warrants said Eve had been prescribed amphetamine salts, which is commonly referred to as Adderall and used to treat ADHD. —Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 14 Apr. 2026

Oninski was transported to the hospital and tested positive for benzodiazepines, amphetamines, and THC in her blood. —Landon Mion, FOXNews.com, 1 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

a(lpha) entry 2 + m(ethyl) + phe(n-) + et(hyl) + amine

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for amphetamine

• acetylene
• adenosine
• anthropocene
• antipyrine
• apomorphine
• apoprotein
• aquamarine
• arsphenamine
• azobenzene
• buprenorphine
• chlorobenzene
• chlorpromazine

Kids Definition

amphetamine

noun

am·​phet·​amine am-ˈfet-ə-ˌmēn 

-mən

: a compound or one made from it used medically to increase the activity of the central nervous system but often abused for its stimulant effects

Medical Definition

amphetamine

noun

am·​phet·​amine am-ˈfet-ə-ˌmēn  -mən 

: a racemic sympathomimetic amine C₉H₁₃N or one of its derivatives (as dextroamphetamine or methamphetamine) that is a stimulant of the central nervous system, is frequently abused illicitly often leading to dependence, and is used clinically especially in the form of its sulfate C₉H₁₃N·H₂SO₄ to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy and formerly as a short-term appetite suppressant see adderall