Inebriety Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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inebriety

[ɪˈniːbrʌɪəti ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

state of being intoxicated

Inebriety refers to the state of being intoxicated or drunk, typically as a result of consuming alcohol or drugs. It is characterized by impaired coordination, slurred speech, and altered judgment.

Synonyms

drunkenness, inebriation, intoxication.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
inebriety	Usually used in a more formal or literary context to describe the condition of being drunk. His frequent inebriety was a cause of concern for his friends. The novel depicts the protagonist's descent into inebriety.
intoxication	This term is often used in medical or legal contexts. It can also refer to being under the influence of drugs in addition to alcohol. The medical team treated him for alcohol intoxication. Intoxication can impair your ability to drive safely.
drunkenness	Commonly used in everyday language to refer to someone being drunk, often with a slightly negative connotation. Her drunkenness at the party was quite embarrassing. Drunkenness can lead to poor decision making.
inebriation	Similar to inebriety, but slightly less formal. Can be used in both everyday and academic contexts. Signs of inebriation include slurred speech and loss of balance. The police tested the driver for inebriation.

Examples of usage

He was arrested for public intoxication due to his inebriety.
Her inebriety led to embarrassing behavior at the party.
The dangers of inebriety include impaired driving and health risks.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

In ancient Greece, wine was not just a drink but part of religious ceremonies, leading to both celebration and inebriety in contexts like the Dionysian festivals.
Alcohol consumption varies globally; for example, some cultures celebrate inebriety as part of communal festivities, while others view it negatively.

Health and Psychology

Inebriety can impair judgment and coordination, making it critical to understand the effects of alcohol for personal safety and social interactions.
Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption can have social benefits, but excessive inebriety poses health risks, including addiction.

Literature

Inebriety often symbolizes freedom or rebellion in literature, serving as a narrative device in works ranging from 'The Great Gatsby' to classical poetry.
Many authors have explored the theme of intoxication as both a means of escape and a source of conflict within their narratives.

History

Throughout history, various regulations on alcohol have been implemented, including Prohibition in the 1920s in the United States, highlighting societal attitudes towards inebriety.
Different eras have seen spikes in consumption during times of war or economic downturns, where inebriety served as an escape for many.

Origin of 'inebriety'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'inebrietas', which means 'drunkenness', derived from 'inebriari' meaning 'to make drunk'.
The first known use of the term in English dates back to the early 1600s, reflecting societal attitudes toward alcohol at the time.

The word 'inebriety' originated from the Latin word 'inebrietas', which means drunkenness. Throughout history, inebriety has been associated with both positive and negative connotations. In some cultures, intoxication was seen as a way to connect with the divine, while in others, it was condemned as a sign of moral weakness. Today, inebriety is often viewed as a temporary escape from reality, but it can also lead to serious consequences such as addiction and health problems.

See also: inebriated, inebriating, inebriation.