Alcoholism

/ˈæl.kə.hɒ.lɪ.zəm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A chronic disease characterized by an inability to control or stop drinking alcohol despite negative social, occupational, or health consequences.

His struggle with alcoholism led to serious health issues and strained relationships.

The compulsive need for and use of alcoholic beverages.

Many people are unaware of how quickly alcoholism can develop from social drinking.

A pattern of excessive drinking that can lead to physical dependence and addiction.

The clinic specializes in treating alcoholism and providing support for recovery.

The term 'alcoholism' combines 'alcohol', borrowed from Arabic al-kuḥl, and the suffix '-ism' denoting a condition.

alcoholic tendencies

A tendency to consume alcohol excessively or in a problematic manner.

hit rock bottom

To reach a point of despair due to addiction or alcoholism, prompting a need for help.

dry drunk

A person who has stopped drinking alcohol but still exhibits destructive behaviors characteristic of alcoholism.

binge drinking

Consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period.

rehabilitation

A process of treatment for individuals recovering from alcoholism.

boozehound

He was such a boozehound that he couldn't go a day without drinking.

drunkard

After years of being a drunkard, he finally decided to seek help.

lush

She was known as a lush for her inability to resist alcohol at every party.