Meaning & Definition of word "Alcoholic"

Alcoholic

/ˌæl.kəˈhɒl.ɪk/

noun:

  • 1. A person who is addicted to or dependent on alcohol.
    • Example: After attending the meeting, he realized he was an alcoholic.
  • 2. A person who consumes large quantities of alcohol.
    • Example: His friends often joked that he was an alcoholic because of his frequent drinking.

adjective:

  • 1. Pertaining to or containing alcohol.
    • Example: He ordered an alcoholic beverage at the bar.
  • 2. Addicted to or dependent on alcohol.
    • Example: She has struggled with being an alcoholic for many years.

Etymology

From 'alcohol' + '-ic', first used in the early 19th century.

Common Phrases and Expressions

functioning alcoholic:

A person who manages to maintain a job and normal social interactions while struggling with alcoholism.

dry drunk:

A person who abstains from alcohol but still exhibits the behaviors associated with alcoholism.

social drinker:

Someone who drinks alcohol only in social settings and not excessively.

Related Words

alcoholism:

A medical condition characterized by an uncontrollable craving for alcohol and continued use despite negative consequences.

moderation:

The avoidance of excess in consumption, particularly regarding alcohol.

intoxication:

The state of being drunk or under the influence of alcohol.

Slang Meanings of alcoholic

Meaning: Sot

Example Sentence: He's such a sot, always drinking at bars.

Meaning: Boozer

Example Sentence: She's a real boozer who can't go a day without a drink.

Meaning: Alkie

Example Sentence: He has become an alkie after years of neglecting his health.