Intoxicate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ท
intoxicate
[ษชnหtษksษชkeษชt ]
Definitions
drink
To poison someone by alcohol or drugs. To make someone drunk or high. To excite or elate someone beyond self-control.
Synonyms
besot, drug, inebriate, poison.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| intoxicate |
Generally used to describe the state of being affected by alcohol or drugs, leading to altered mental and physical abilities.
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| poison |
Used to indicate the act of administering harmful substances that can cause serious harm or death. Has a strongly negative connotation.
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| drug |
Refers to the administration of drugs, often implying illegal substances or administering substances to someone without their knowledge.
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| inebriate |
A more formal or old-fashioned term, typically used to describe being drunk. Often has a slightly humorous or mild tone.
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| besot |
More often used in a romantic or obsessive context, meaning to infatuate or captivate someone's attention to the point of being irrational.
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Examples of usage
- He was heavily intoxicated by the end of the party.
- Their intention was to intoxicate him with alcohol and take advantage of him.
- She felt intoxicated by the thrill of the chase.
emotion
To exhilarate or excite someone emotionally. To stimulate or excite someone beyond self-control.
Synonyms
enrapture, excite, stimulate, thrill.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| intoxicate |
Typically used to describe the effect of alcohol or drugs on someone, causing them to lose control of their behavior or faculties. It has a negative connotation.
|
| enrapture |
Used in situations where someone is filled with intense delight or joy, often implying a feeling of being carried away or absorbed by something wonderful. Positive connotation.
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| thrill |
Used when someone experiences a sudden feeling of excitement and pleasure, often in a physical way. Generally positive connotation.
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| excite |
Used to describe something that makes someone feel eager, enthusiastic, or energetic. Usually has a positive connotation.
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| stimulate |
Used to describe something that encourages activity or growth, both mentally and physically. Can have both positive and neutral connotations.
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Examples of usage
- The music intoxicated her soul.
- The beauty of the artwork intoxicated him.
charm
To captivate or enchant someone. To charm or fascinate someone deeply.
Synonyms
captivate, enchant, fascinate, mesmerize.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| intoxicate |
Used to describe someone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It has a negative connotation when referring to substance abuse.
|
| captivate |
Appropriate for situations where someone or something attracts and holds someone's attention or interest completely.
|
| enchant |
Typically used when someone or something delights someone in a magical or charming way. It implies a sense of magic or wonder.
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| fascinate |
Suitable for describing something that intensely interests or attracts someone's attention.
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| mesmerize |
Used when someone or something captures complete attention, almost like a spell. It usually has a stronger effect than 'captivate' or 'fascinate'.
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Examples of usage
- The magician intoxicated the audience with his performance.
- Her smile intoxicated him instantly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Ancient cultures like the Egyptians and Greeks used alcohol in rituals, not just for enjoyment but as a way to connect with the divine.
- Prohibition in the 1920s America highlighted societal views on intoxication, leading to a surge in underground bars called speakeasies.
Health Effects
- Short-term effects include euphoria, impaired judgment, and lack of coordination, which can lead to accidents.
- Long-term excessive use can lead to serious health problems, including addiction and liver disease.
Pop Culture
- Music and films often portray intoxication as a source of fun or comedy, but they also sometimes show its darker consequences.
- The phrase 'liquid courage' is popular in songs and movies, highlighting how people feel braver when intoxicated.
Legal Perspectives
- Many countries have laws regulating the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages to limit public intoxication.
- Driving under the influence is a serious offense worldwide, with strict laws aimed at reducing intoxicated driving accidents.
Origin of 'intoxicate'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'toxicum', meaning poison, reflecting the harmful effects of excessive consumption.
- The prefix 'in-' suggests being 'in the state of,' which ties to the altered state produced by alcohol or drugs.
The word 'intoxicate' originated from the Latin word 'intoxicatus', which is the past participle of 'intoxicฤre' meaning 'to poison'. In English, the word first appeared in the 15th century with the meaning 'to poison'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the state of being drunk or excited beyond self-control. The word has been used in various contexts, from describing the effects of alcohol and drugs to the exhilaration of emotions and charm.