Meaning & Definition of word "Alcoholism"
Alcoholism
/ˈæl.kə.hɒ.lɪ.zəm/
noun:
- 1. A chronic disease characterized by an inability to control or stop drinking alcohol despite negative social, occupational, or health consequences.
- Example: His struggle with alcoholism led to serious health issues and strained relationships.
- 2. The compulsive need for and use of alcoholic beverages.
- Example: Many people are unaware of how quickly alcoholism can develop from social drinking.
- 3. A pattern of excessive drinking that can lead to physical dependence and addiction.
- Example: The clinic specializes in treating alcoholism and providing support for recovery.
Etymology
●The term 'alcoholism' combines 'alcohol', borrowed from Arabic al-kuḥl, and the suffix '-ism' denoting a condition.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
binge drinking:
Consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period.
rehabilitation:
A process of treatment for individuals recovering from alcoholism.
Slang Meanings of alcoholism
Meaning: boozehound
● Example Sentence: He was such a boozehound that he couldn't go a day without drinking.
Meaning: drunkard
● Example Sentence: After years of being a drunkard, he finally decided to seek help.
Meaning: lush
● Example Sentence: She was known as a lush for her inability to resist alcohol at every party.