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Booze Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฅ‚
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booze

[buหz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

drinking alcohol

Alcoholic beverages collectively, especially hard liquor or spirits.

Synonyms

alcohol, liquor, spirits.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
booze

Informal slang often used in casual conversation to refer to any alcoholic drink, usually when describing social drinking or excess.

  • They brought a lot of booze to the party.
  • After work, we all went out for some booze.
alcohol

General term used in formal and informal contexts to refer to any drinks containing ethanol. Suitable for most discussions about drinking and health.

  • The doctor advised him to avoid alcohol.
  • Alcohol consumption has increased during the pandemic.
liquor

More specific term that refers to strong alcoholic drinks like whiskey, vodka, and rum. Often used in both formal and informal settings.

  • He prefers liquor over beer or wine.
  • The bar offers a wide selection of liquors.
spirits

Formal term for distilled alcoholic beverages. Often used in professional, retail, or culinary contexts.

  • The store specializes in fine wines and spirits.
  • Spirits like gin and tequila are popular in cocktails.

Examples of usage

  • He had too much booze last night and now he has a terrible hangover.
  • She decided to quit drinking booze and start living a healthier lifestyle.
Context #2 | Verb

to drink alcohol

To consume alcoholic beverages, especially heavily or habitually.

Synonyms

drink, imbibe, quaff.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
booze

Informal and often used in a negative connotation or light-hearted context when referring to alcohol. Commonly used in conversations among friends or in casual settings.

  • We had too much booze at the party
  • He's been hitting the booze a lot lately
drink

Neutral and widely used term for consuming liquids, including alcohol. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

  • Would you like a drink? He went out for a drink after work
imbibe

Formal and slightly old-fashioned, typically used in written language or in a sophisticated context. Generally refers to the act of drinking, often used in relation to alcohol.

  • They gathered to imbibe and discuss literature
  • She tends to imbibe a bit too much at events
quaff

Formal and somewhat archaic, often implies drinking something enthusiastically or in large quantities. Mostly found in literary contexts or to add a humorous or dramatic effect.

  • The knights quaffed their ale in celebration
  • She quaffed the refreshing beverage with glee

Examples of usage

  • He tends to booze every weekend with his friends.
  • She's been boozing a lot lately, and it's affecting her work.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Various cultures celebrate with alcoholic beverages during events like weddings, holidays, and festivals, showcasing its role in social bonding.
  • In many countries, toasting with a drink is a cultural practice that expresses goodwill and friendship.
  • Movies and TV shows often depict characters bonding over drinks, highlighting its role in social storytelling.

Health Perspectives

  • Moderate consumption can have social benefits, such as easing tension and promoting relaxation.
  • Excessive intake can lead to health issues, prompting public health campaigns to educate about responsible drinking.
  • Studies show that certain phytochemicals in red wine can have heart health benefits when consumed in moderation.

Literature & Art

  • Alcohol features prominently in many classic works of literature, often symbolizing escapism or deeper emotional struggles.
  • Famous artists like Van Gogh and Hemingway were known for their relationships with alcohol, using it as a muse for their creativity.
  • Wine and spirits are common motifs in still-life paintings, reflecting not just their aesthetic but also their cultural significance.

Historical Context

  • Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933) led to the illegal production and distribution of alcoholic drinks, significantly impacting society.
  • Throughout history, various civilizations have brewed their own versions of alcohol, like the ancient Sumerians who brewed beer as early as 4000 BCE.
  • During the Middle Ages, monasteries played a crucial role in wine production and preservation, impacting European drinking culture.

Origin of 'booze'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Booze' comes from the 19th-century slang derived from 'bouse,' which means to drink heavily.
  • The word is linked to the Dutch word 'buysen,' which means to drink in a loud or noisy manner.
  • It first appeared in American English in the early 1800s, referring to any kind of beverage, but soon became associated with alcohol.

The term 'booze' originated in the 13th century from Middle Dutch 'bลซsen' meaning 'to drink heavily.' Over time, it evolved to refer to alcoholic beverages in general. Booze has been a colloquial term for alcohol throughout history, often associated with casual or excessive consumption.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,087, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.