Breathalyzed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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breathalyzed
[ˈbrɛθəˌlaɪzd ]
Definition
alcohol testing
Breathalyzed refers to the process of testing a person's breath to determine their blood alcohol content (BAC). This is commonly done by law enforcement officials as a means of assessing whether individuals are driving under the influence of alcohol. The test uses a device called a breathalyzer, which measures the amount of alcohol in a person's breath.
Synonyms
BAC test, breath test.
Examples of usage
- The police breathalyzed the driver after the accident.
- She was breathalyzed at the sobriety checkpoint.
- He refused to be breathalyzed and faced legal consequences.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Breathalyzers work by measuring the amount of alcohol vapor in a person's breath, which correlates with blood alcohol concentration.
- The device uses chemical reactions, often involving a solution that changes color depending on the alcohol level detected.
Legal Context
- In many countries, a breathalyzer test is legally required for drivers suspected of alcohol consumption.
- Refusing to take a breathalyzer test can lead to penalties that are often more severe than failing the test itself.
Pop Culture
- Breathalyzers often appear in movies and TV shows, usually in scenes involving police stops and comedic yet serious situations.
- They have become a symbol of responsible drinking and the measures taken against drunk driving.
Technology
- Modern breathalyzers can connect to smartphones, allowing users to track their alcohol consumption and receive personalized advice.
- Advancements in sensor technology continue to improve the accuracy and reliability of breath analysis devices.
Origin of 'breathalyzed'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'breath' and 'analyze', reflecting the method of analyzing breath for alcohol levels.
- It originated from the need for a quick and non-invasive way to assess intoxication in law enforcement.
The term 'breathalyzed' is derived from the name 'Breathalyzer,' which is a trademarked device used for measuring blood alcohol content through one's breath. The word itself combines 'breath' and 'analyze,' referring to how it assesses the presence of alcohol in exhaled air. The device was first developed in the 1950s, with significant advancements made in technology over the decades to improve accuracy and reliability. By the 1970s, the term gained popularity as law enforcement officials began using breath tests extensively to combat drunk driving. As societal attitudes towards drinking and driving have evolved, so too has the use of breath analysis as a crucial tool in maintaining road safety.