Alcoholic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐บ
alcoholic
[หalkษหhษlษชk ]
Definitions
substance abuse
A person who is addicted to alcohol and has a strong desire to drink excessively.
Synonyms
alcohol addict, alcohol dependent, drunkard.
Examples of usage
- He was struggling with his addiction and knew he needed help to overcome being an alcoholic.
- She realized she was an alcoholic when she couldn't go a day without drinking.
- The support group was filled with recovering alcoholics who shared their stories of struggle and triumph.
- Many alcoholics find it difficult to admit they have a problem and seek help.
- Being an alcoholic can have serious health consequences if not addressed.
describing behavior
Relating to or resulting from alcoholism.
Synonyms
addictive, intemperate, problematic.
Examples of usage
- Her alcoholic father's behavior had a negative impact on the family.
- The alcoholic tendencies in his family made him cautious about drinking.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health
- Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a range of health issues, including liver disease, heart problems, and increased risk of certain cancers.
- Alcohol dependency often requires professional help, including therapy and support groups, to overcome.
- It affects not just the drinker, but also families and communities, creating a need for better awareness and education.
Cultural Aspects
- In many cultures, alcohol is associated with celebrations, but also has a darker side involving addiction and social stigma.
- Certain indigenous groups have used fermented beverages in rituals, emphasizing the varied meanings of drinking across cultures.
- The rise of craft breweries has changed how societies view alcohol consumption, focusing on quality and social experiences.
Legal and Social Issues
- In many countries, there are laws regulating alcohol consumption ages to prevent underage drinking.
- Alcohol addiction is considered a disease and is treated with both medical and psychological approach in many health care systems.
- Stigmas surrounding alcohol dependence often lead to a lack of understanding and support for those affected.
Psychology
- Studies show that social environment and peer influence can significantly impact alcohol consumption patterns.
- Addiction alters brain chemistry, creating cravings that make quitting difficult without help.
- Understanding triggers and coping strategies are often part of recovery programs, highlighting the importance of mental health support.
Origin of 'alcoholic'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Arabic 'al-kuแธฅl,' referring to a powder used for eyeliner but evolved to describe distilled substances.
- In the 16th century, it began to represent the refined spirits we know today.
- In modern usage, it relates to people who have dependency issues with alcoholic beverages.
The word 'alcoholic' originated in the early 19th century from the Latin word 'alcohol' combined with the suffix '-ic', meaning 'pertaining to'. It was initially used to describe a chemical substance, but later evolved to refer to a person addicted to alcohol. The concept of alcoholism has been recognized for centuries, with various treatments and attitudes towards it changing over time.
See also: alcohol.