Meaning & Definition of word "Alcoholic"

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    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.