O"pi*ate (?), n. [From Opium: cf.F. opiat.]

1. Originally, a medicine of a thicker consistence than sirup, prepared with opium. Parr.

2. Any medicine that contains opium, and has the quality of inducing sleep or repose; a narcotic.

3. Anything which induces rest or inaction; that which quiets uneasiness.

They chose atheism as an opiate.

O"pi*ate, a. [See Opium.] Inducing sleep; somniferous; narcotic; hence, anodyne; causing rest, dullness, or inaction; as, the opiate rod of Hermes. Milton.

O"pi*ate (?), v. t. To subject to the influence of an opiate; to put to sleep. [R.] Fenton.

• Relating to, resembling, or containing opium.
  
• Soporific; inducing sleep or sedation
  
• Deadening; causing apathy or dullness
  
• A drug, hormone or other substance derived from or related to opium.
  
• Something that dulls the senses and induces a false and unrealistic sense of contentment.