Drinker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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drinker

[ˈdrɪŋkər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

person who consumes alcoholic beverages

A drinker is a person who regularly consumes alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, or spirits. Drinkers may consume alcohol for various reasons, including socializing, relaxation, or coping with stress. It is important for drinkers to consume alcohol in moderation to avoid negative health effects.

Synonyms

alcoholic, imbiber, toper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drinker

This is a neutral term used to describe someone who consumes alcohol. It doesn't imply excess or addiction.

  • He's a moderate drinker who enjoys a glass of wine with dinner
alcoholic

This word is typically used in a clinical or negative sense to describe someone addicted to alcohol. It implies a problematic relationship with drinking.

  • After years of struggling, he finally admitted he was an alcoholic and sought help
imbiber

A somewhat formal term used to describe someone who drinks. It can be used humorously or in a literary context.

  • As an occasional imbiber of fine whiskey, he had a keen nose for quality
toper

This is an old-fashioned or literary term for someone who drinks, often to excess. It has a slightly archaic and humorous tone.

  • The old toper could always be found at the local tavern, spinning tales of his youth

Examples of usage

  • John is known to be a heavy drinker, often seen with a beer in his hand.
  • Moderate drinkers may enjoy a glass of wine with dinner occasionally.
  • She was worried about her friend's health, knowing he was a heavy drinker.
Context #2 | Noun

device for holding liquid and allowing it to be consumed

In a more literal sense, a drinker can also refer to a device or container used for holding liquid and allowing it to be consumed. This can include cups, glasses, bottles, or any other vessel designed for drinking.

Synonyms

container, cup, vessel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drinker

Used to describe someone who consumes beverages, often implying frequent consumption of alcohol.

  • John is a heavy drinker, often seen at the bar every evening
  • Mary is a social drinker and enjoys a glass of wine during gatherings
vessel

A hollow object used to hold liquids, often used in a more formal or technical context; can also refer to a large boat or ship.

  • The scientist poured the liquid into a glass vessel
  • The cargo vessel sailed across the ocean
container

A general term for any object that can hold or store other items, not limited to liquids.

  • The container was full of old toys
  • She used a glass container to store the pasta
cup

A small open container used for drinking beverages, typically with a handle.

  • He drank coffee from his favorite cup
  • She bought a new set of tea cups for the kitchen

Examples of usage

  • She sipped her coffee from the small drinker on her desk.
  • The bartender filled the drinker with ice and poured the cocktail over it.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culture

  • In many cultures, sharing a drink symbolizes friendship and hospitality.
  • Different drinks have rituals associated with them, such as tea ceremonies in Japan or toasting in Western cultures.

Psychology

  • Studies show that social interactions often increase when people drink together, highlighting its role in bonding.
  • Certain drinks can trigger memories or emotions due to their association with specific experiences.

Health

  • Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health; water is the best drink for this.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to health issues, emphasizing the importance of moderation.

Literature

  • Drinking often symbolizes freedom or rebellion in literature, representing characters who escape societal norms.
  • Authors like Ernest Hemingway explored the themes of drinking as a means to cope with life's hardships in their works.

Origin of 'drinker'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'drincan,' which means to drink or swallow.
  • Its roots trace back to Proto-Germanic 'drinkan,' showing how the concept has been used for centuries across different languages.

The word 'drinker' originated from the Middle English word 'drinkere', which was derived from the Old English word 'drincere'. The concept of drinking alcohol has been a part of human culture for centuries, with evidence of fermented beverages dating back to ancient civilizations. The term 'drinker' has evolved to encompass both the person who consumes alcohol and the device used for drinking liquids.


See also: drink, drinks, drunk.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,613, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.