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Drunkenness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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drunkenness

[ˈdrʌŋkənnəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

excessive alcohol consumption

Drunkenness is the state of being intoxicated with alcohol, typically characterized by impaired coordination, slurred speech, and impaired judgment. It can lead to risky behavior, health problems, and addiction.

Synonyms

inebriation, inebriety, intemperance, intoxication.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drunkenness

Used in common and general situations to describe the state of being drunk.

  • His drunkenness was evident at the party.
  • She blamed her husband's drunkenness for their problems.
intoxication

A more clinical or technical term to describe the state of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Can also refer to the condition of being overwhelmed by strong emotions or experiences.

  • The driver was arrested for intoxication.
  • She experienced a sense of intoxication after hearing the good news.
inebriation

A more formal term to describe the state of being drunk, often used in written or medical contexts.

  • The inebriation was caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Inebriation levels tested were surprisingly high.
inebriety

An older and less common term with a similar meaning to 'inebriation'; might be seen in literature.

  • Victorian novels often reference inebriety in their depictions of society.
  • He sought help to overcome his inebriety.
intemperance

Usually implies excessive or habitual indulgence in alcohol or other vices, often with a moral judgement.

  • His intemperance led to his downfall.
  • The preacher warned against the dangers of intemperance.

Examples of usage

  • She was arrested for public drunkenness.
  • His drunkenness often led to arguments with his friends.
  • The dangers of drunkenness are well-documented.
  • Excessive drunkenness can have serious consequences.
  • His drunkenness was evident to everyone around him.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • Many cultures have festivals that celebrate drinking, such as Oktoberfest in Germany, highlighting both social enjoyment and the risks of overindulgence.
  • In certain traditions, drinking has been used in ceremonies to symbolize unity or celebration, despite the potential for drunkenness.
  • Alcohol consumption varies globally; some cultures promote drinking as part of meals, while others discourage it due to health and social issues.

Psychology

  • Excessive drinking alters the brain's reward system, leading to increased feelings of pleasure initially but can lead to dependence over time.
  • Research shows that social drinking can lead to changes in behavior, altering one's perception of reality.
  • The effects of drunkenness can impair judgment and decision-making, often causing individuals to take risks they normally wouldn't.

Health Effects

  • Chronic drunkenness can lead to serious health issues such as liver disease and heart problems, affecting both mind and body.
  • Short-term effects of being drunk may include slowed reflexes, memory lapses, and altering of senses, impacting social and personal safety.
  • The concept of binge drinking is often related to drunkenness, where consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short time can have severe health consequences.

Literature and Art

  • Drunkenness is a common theme in literature, often explored as a source of creativity or a means to escape reality, as seen in works by writers like Ernest Hemingway.
  • Many artists throughout history have depicted drunkenness in their works, such as in paintings highlighting the lively parties of the past or the downfalls of addiction.
  • Poets frequently use drunkenness metaphorically to discuss deeper themes of love, loss, and the human experience, illustrating both joy and despair.

Origin of 'drunkenness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'drunkenness' comes from the Old English 'druncen', which means 'to be intoxicated'.
  • It has roots in the early Germanic languages, linking to words that indicate being submerged or overwhelmed.
  • The suffix '-ness' indicates a state or condition, turning the adjective 'drunken' into a noun that describes a state of being.

The word 'drunkenness' dates back to Middle English and is derived from the Old English word 'druncennes', which is related to the Old Norse 'drukknandi'. The concept of drunkenness has been a part of human culture for centuries, with alcohol being a common intoxicant in many societies. Throughout history, drunkenness has been associated with both celebration and negative consequences, leading to regulations and social norms around alcohol consumption.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,563, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.