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Alcoholism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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alcoholism

[ˌæl.kəˈhɒl.ɪ.zəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

health condition

Alcoholism is a chronic disease characterized by an individual's inability to control or stop drinking despite the negative consequences that may arise. It often leads to physical dependency on alcohol, and can have severe impacts on a person's health, relationships, and social responsibilities. The condition can manifest in various forms, including binge drinking and regular excessive consumption. Effectively addressing alcoholism typically requires a combination of medical treatment, counseling, and support from peers and family.

Synonyms

alcohol abuse, alcohol dependency, drink problem.

Examples of usage

  • She struggles with alcoholism and attends support group meetings.
  • Alcoholism can lead to severe health complications.
  • He checked into rehab to address his alcoholism.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Health

  • Long-term heavy drinking can lead to serious health issues, including liver disease, heart problems, and neurological damage.
  • Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol can be dangerous and include shaking, sweating, and even seizures, highlighting the severity of dependence.

Societal Impact

  • Alcoholism affects not just the individual but also families and communities, contributing to issues such as domestic violence and financial instability.
  • Many countries have implemented campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of excessive drinking, promoting healthier lifestyles.

Literature

  • Numerous literary works explore the theme of alcoholism, reflecting on its impact on personal relationships and society at large, such as in the writings of Charles Dickens.
  • Authors like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald have openly discussed their struggles with drinking, making it a central theme in their biographies and stories.

Psychology

  • Psychologists often study the relationship between depression and alcoholism, noting that many individuals may drink to cope with emotional pain.
  • Treatment for alcoholism may include therapy, support groups, and sometimes medication, highlighting the complex nature of addiction as both a medical and a psychological issue.

Origin of 'alcoholism'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'alcohol' comes from the Arabic word 'al-kuḥl', which originally referred to a fine powder used in eye makeup.
  • The suffix '-ism' is used in English to denote a state or condition, indicating ongoing patterns of behavior like that of alcoholism.

The term 'alcoholism' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the word 'alcohol' which itself traces back to the Arabic 'al-kuḥl', referring to a finely powdered substance. The use of 'alcohol' evolved to describe distilled substances, specifically ethanol, in the context of spirits and intoxication. The suffix '-ism' indicates a condition or syndrome, thus 'alcoholism' denotes a state or condition related to the excessive consumption of alcohol. As public awareness grew regarding the effects of alcohol on health and society, the term 'alcoholism' came to be recognized formally in medical literature and discussions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This was a time when various temperance movements were also emerging, advocating for reduced or eliminated alcohol consumption due to its perceived social problems. Today, alcoholism is recognized globally as a significant health issue, leading to various therapeutic approaches and initiatives aimed at prevention and recovery.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,615, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.