Search
Select the dictionary language
Gateway drug
01
a substance, often referring to marijuana or alcohol, that is believed to potentially lead individuals to experiment with or use more dangerous and addictive substances
Grammatical Information
Animacy status
Inanimate
Plural form
gateway drugs
What is a "gateway drug"?
A gateway drug is a substance, typically a legal one like alcohol or tobacco, that some believe may lead to using or experimenting with more harmful or illegal drugs such as cocaine or heroin. However, it is important to understand that not everyone who uses gateway drugs will go on to use more harmful substances. Factors such as genetics, environment, and personal choices play significant roles in drug use behaviors.
Examples
Some people believe that marijuana is a gateway drug, leading to the use of stronger substances.
