Breathalyze Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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breathalyze
[ˈbrɛθəlaɪz ]
Definition
test for alcohol
To breathalyze is to measure the alcohol content in a person's breath, typically using a device called a breathalyzer. This process is often used by law enforcement officers to determine if a driver is under the influence of alcohol.
Synonyms
alcohol test, breath test.
Examples of usage
- The officer asked the driver to breathalyze after noticing signs of intoxication.
- At the checkpoint, officers routinely breathalyze drivers to ensure road safety.
- He was breathalyzed during the traffic stop and failed the test.
Translations
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Origin of 'breathalyze'
The term 'breathalyze' is derived from 'breath' and 'analyze.' It first entered use in the late 20th century, coinciding with the rise of breath testing technologies used by law enforcement. The first breathalyzer was invented in the 1950s, providing a scientific method for measuring blood alcohol content via breath. As public awareness of drunk driving and its consequences increased, the term became more prevalent, especially in legal and safety contexts. Over time, breathalyzing has become a common practice worldwide as authorities strive to enforce laws against driving under the influence.