Intoxifying: meaning, definitions and examples

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intoxifying

[ɪnˈtɒksɪfaɪɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

describing effects

Causing someone to become intoxicated or drunk.

Synonyms

inebriating, intoxicated, intoxicating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intoxifying	This word is rarely used and might be considered nonstandard. It could be used to describe something that causes a state of intoxication. The mysterious drink had an unexpectedly intoxifying effect.
intoxicating	Suitable for describing something that causes an uplifting, thrilling, or overwhelming sensation, not necessarily related to alcohol or drugs. Can have a positive or neutral connotation. The perfume had an intoxicating scent. The view from the mountaintop was absolutely intoxicating.
inebriating	Appropriate for describing something that induces drunkenness, often in a formal or literary context. The strong wine had an inebriating effect on the guests. The inebriating atmosphere of the festival kept everyone in high spirits.
intoxicated	Commonly used to describe someone who has consumed too much alcohol or drugs. This term can have a negative connotation. The driver was arrested because he was intoxicated. She felt intoxicated after drinking just one cocktail.

Examples of usage

She had a few sips of the intoxicifying drink and soon felt a pleasant buzz.
The intoxicifying aroma of the wine filled the room.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

describing allure

Having a captivating or seductive effect.

Synonyms

alluring, captivating, seductive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intoxifying	Used when something is so overwhelmingly pleasant or exciting that it affects your senses or emotions strongly. It often suggests a sense of being overwhelmed or enchanted, almost to the point of losing control or judgment. The scent of the flowers was so intoxifying, it felt like I was in a dream. Her voice was intoxifying, making everyone in the room stop and listen.
captivating	Used when something holds your attention completely because it is very interesting or attractive. It implies that someone or something is so fascinating that you can't look away. The storyteller's performance was absolutely captivating; no one could look away. Her captivating eyes seemed to look into your soul.
seductive	Used when something has the power to attract or tempt someone, often in a way that is considered to be sexually enticing. It can carry a slightly negative connotation if it implies manipulation or deceit. The model’s seductive pose made the advertisement very memorable. His offer was so seductive, I almost agreed without thinking.
alluring	Used to describe something or someone that attracts attention or interest through charm or appeal. It is often used in a positive sense, suggesting attractiveness and charm. The actress's alluring smile caught everyone's attention. The brochure showed an alluring beach destination that looked perfect for a summer vacation.

Examples of usage

The intoxicifying beauty of the sunset left everyone in awe.
Her intoxicifying gaze made it hard for him to look away.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word combines 'intoxicate' — which means to make someone drunk or overly excited — with the suffix '-ifying', creating a sense of causing that feeling.
The root 'tox' comes from the Latin word 'toxicum', meaning poison, suggesting a powerful effect on the mind or body.
The term has evolved in modern usage to describe intense emotional experiences, especially related to love or art.

Psychology

Experiences considered intoxifying often trigger the release of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that makes you feel pleasure.
Strong emotions, whether from joy, love, or adrenaline, can lead to feelings of being intoxicated, blurring the line between extreme happiness and overwhelming sensations.
Psychologists study how intense feelings can affect decision-making, demonstrating that being in an 'intoxifying' mood can lead to riskier choices.

Cultural References

In literature, numerous authors describe love as an intoxicating experience, illustrating how deeply it can affect one’s thoughts and feelings.
Songs often capture the experience of intoxification through music, mirroring the euphoric feeling one gets from love or life’s high moments.
In various cultures, festivals and celebrations are termed intoxicating due to the overwhelming joy they bring, creating unforgettable experiences.

Art and Expression

Intoxicating artwork or performances can leave viewers mesmerized, invoking deep emotions or a sense of connection that feels almost out of this world.
The intensity of certain colors and sounds in art can be described as intoxicating, drawing viewers into experiencing something much deeper than the surface.
Film directors often aim to create scenes that feel intoxicating through dramatic storytelling, impacting audience mood and perception.

Translations

Translations of the word "intoxifying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intoxicante

🇮🇳 नशा करनेवाला

🇩🇪 berauschend

🇮🇩 memabukkan

🇺🇦 п'янкий

🇵🇱 odurzający

🇯🇵 酩酊させる

🇫🇷 enivrant

🇪🇸 intoxicante

🇹🇷 sarhoş edici

🇰🇷 취하게 하는

🇸🇦 مُسْكِر

🇨🇿 omamný

🇸🇰 omamný

🇨🇳 令人陶醉的

🇸🇮 opojno

🇮🇸 vímuefni

🇰🇿 мас болған

🇬🇪 მთვრალი

🇦🇿 sərxoş edici

🇲🇽 intoxicante