Which term refers to drug-induced CNS depression where the patient can be aroused by noxious stimulation?

The correct answer is sedation. This term describes a state of drug-induced central nervous system (CNS) depression in which a patient is still responsive enough to be aroused by noxious stimulation. Sedation is commonly used in medical and surgical contexts to reduce anxiety and discomfort while still allowing for a degree of responsiveness.

Tranquilization generally refers to a state of calmness and relaxation, often without the same level of sedation implied; therefore, it does not fully capture the specific level of CNS depression described in the question. Narcosis indicates a deeper level of CNS depression where the patient is not responsive to stimuli, which differentiates it from sedation. Lastly, hypnosis refers to a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility but does not specifically indicate the same level of CNS depression as sedation.