Hungover Meaning: Definition and Examples
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hungover
[ˈhʌŋˌoʊvər ]
Definition
feeling unwell
Hungover refers to the unpleasant physical effects that follow the heavy consumption of alcohol. Symptoms can include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dehydration, commonly experienced the day after drinking. This condition can significantly impair an individual's ability to function normally.
Synonyms
dehydrated, nauseated, queasy, sick.
Examples of usage
- I feel absolutely hungover after last night's party.
- He couldn't go to work because he was too hungover.
- She drank too much and woke up feeling hungover.
- After the celebration, a lot of us were hungover the next day.
Interesting Facts
Health
- Dehydration is a major cause of hangover symptoms, as alcohol can lead the body to lose more water than it takes in.
- Common symptoms include headaches, fatigue, and nausea, which can occur due to chemical changes in the body.
Cultural References
- The phenomenon of hangovers is often humorously depicted in films and books, such as 'The Hangover' series, highlighting exaggerated consequences of wild nights.
- Worldwide, different cultures have their unique remedies for hangovers, from greasy food to herbal teas.
Psychology
- Hangovers can influence mood and behavior, causing irritability or anxiety in those affected.
- Cognitive functions may be impaired during a hangover, making it harder to focus or think clearly.
Social Implications
- The stigma around hangovers can lead individuals to feel guilty or embarrassed about their drinking habits and experiences.
- Many people develop their own social rituals to avoid or cope with the aftermath of drinking, like drinking water between alcoholic beverages.
Origin of 'hungover'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'hungover' likely comes from the combination of 'hung' (to hang) and 'over,' suggesting a feeling of being left over from a previous state.
- The word has been in use since the early 20th century, with more popularity rising in the 1950s.
The word 'hungover' originated in the early 20th century, likely as a combination of 'hung', which refers to being suspended or left over from a previous state, and 'over', suggesting the aftermath of an experience. It is believed to have been derived from the phrase 'to hang over', indicating the sense of lingering effects from a previous night's drinking. The term has since evolved into common vernacular, particularly in relationship to the effects of alcohol consumption. As awareness and imagery of drinking culture spread globally, so too did the term 'hungover', reflecting not just the physical state of individuals but also cultural attitudes toward drinking and its consequences.