Intoxicate: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to describe the state of being affected by alcohol or drugs, leading to altered mental and physical abilities.

• The driver was found to be intoxicated after the accident.
• The alcohol quickly intoxicates the brain, impairing judgment.

Used to indicate the act of administering harmful substances that can cause serious harm or death. Has a strongly negative connotation.

• The spy attempted to poison the ambassador.
• The toxic plant can poison anyone who ingests its leaves.

Refers to the administration of drugs, often implying illegal substances or administering substances to someone without their knowledge.

• The criminal attempted to drug his victims before committing the robbery.
• She was found guilty of drugging her rival.

A more formal or old-fashioned term, typically used to describe being drunk. Often has a slightly humorous or mild tone.

• He had spent the night at the pub and was completely inebriated.
• The inebriate stumbled out of the bar.

More often used in a romantic or obsessive context, meaning to infatuate or captivate someone's attention to the point of being irrational.

• He was completely besotted with her charms.
• She was besotted by his intelligence and kindness.

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.

• The strong cocktail was enough to intoxicate him after just one drink.
• She was so intoxicated she couldn't even remember what happened last night.

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.

• The audience was enraptured by the singer's hauntingly beautiful voice.
• The children were enraptured by the magician's performance.

Used when someone experiences a sudden feeling of excitement and pleasure, often in a physical way. Generally positive connotation.

• The roller coaster ride thrilled everyone with its sudden drops and sharp turns.
• She was thrilled to receive the award for her hard work.

Used to describe something that makes someone feel eager, enthusiastic, or energetic. Usually has a positive connotation.

• The news of the upcoming holiday trip really excited the kids.
• The new video game release excited fans around the world.

Used to describe something that encourages activity or growth, both mentally and physically. Can have both positive and neutral connotations.

• The teacher used a variety of activities to stimulate the students' interest in science.
• A strong cup of coffee in the morning helps stimulate his senses.

Used to describe someone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It has a negative connotation when referring to substance abuse.

• He felt intoxicated after drinking too much wine.
• The driver was arrested for driving while intoxicated.

Appropriate for situations where someone or something attracts and holds someone's attention or interest completely.

• The magician's performance captivated the children.
• She was captivated by his charming smile.

Typically used when someone or something delights someone in a magical or charming way. It implies a sense of magic or wonder.

• The beautiful garden enchanted all the visitors.
• Her voice enchanted everyone who heard it.

Suitable for describing something that intensely interests or attracts someone's attention.

• The documentary on space exploration fascinated him.
• She was fascinated by the intricate details of the painting.

Used when someone or something captures complete attention, almost like a spell. It usually has a stronger effect than 'captivate' or 'fascinate'.

• The dancer's graceful movements mesmerized the audience.
• The sight of the vast ocean at sunset mesmerized him.