What does the word sedative mean?

Sedative is an adjective that describes something that causes drowsiness, sleep, or reduces excitement or activity. It can be used to refer to a drug, an activity, or a state of mind.

Examples:

* The doctor prescribed a sedative to help the patient sleep.

* The gentle rocking of the hammock had a sedative effect on the baby.

* She felt sedate after a long day at the beach.