Definition

1. Noun:
   • A purified and potent form of cocaine: "crack cocaine" refers to a specific, highly concentrated form of the drug cocaine. It is processed into small, rock-like crystals.
   • A smokable form of cocaine: Unlike powdered cocaine, which is typically snorted, "crack cocaine" is designed to be smoked, which produces rapid and intense effects.

Usage

• As a subject or object: The term "crack cocaine" is used to name this specific illicit substance. It is often discussed in contexts of law enforcement, public health, and addiction.
  • The police seized a large quantity of crack cocaine during the raid.
  • Addiction to crack cocaine can develop very quickly.

Advanced Usage

• "Crack" as a shorthand: In informal contexts, the word "crack" is often used alone as a shortened form of "crack cocaine." However, this is a distinct, colloquial usage of the word "crack."
  • The neighborhood has been plagued by crack addiction. (Here, "crack" is understood to mean "crack cocaine.")

Variants and Related Words

• Crack (noun, informal): A common shorthand term for "crack cocaine."
  • He was arrested for possession of crack.
• Cocaine (noun): The parent drug from which crack cocaine is derived. "Crack cocaine" is a specific, processed form of cocaine.
• Freebase (noun): Another smokable form of cocaine, chemically similar to but historically distinct from crack cocaine.

Synonyms

• Rock (slang): A street name for crack cocaine, referring to its rock-like appearance.
• Hard (slang, as in "hard drugs"): A category that includes crack cocaine, distinguishing it from so-called "softer" drugs.

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically denotes the processed, smokable form. It is not synonymous with powdered cocaine.
• Its use carries strong connotations of high potency, rapid addiction, and significant social harm, often discussed in contrast to other forms of the drug.

Noun

1. a purified and potent form of cocaine that is smoked rather than snorted; highly addictive