Straightedge: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe someone who follows a lifestyle that avoids all recreational drugs, including alcohol and tobacco. It is commonly associated with a subculture that promotes such a lifestyle, often found in the punk rock or hardcore music scenes.

• John has been straightedge since he was a teenager.
• The straightedge community puts a lot of importance on living a drug-free life.

A teetotaler specifically refers to someone who abstains from alcohol completely. This term is especially useful in social settings where drinking is common and someone chooses not to participate.

• Even at parties, Mary remains a teetotaler and drinks water or juice.
• Being a teetotaler, Tom never visits bars or pubs.

This term is generally used to describe someone who voluntarily refrains from consuming alcohol or engaging in other specific activities. It can be used in various contexts, not limited to just substances.

• As an abstainer, Sarah never touches alcohol, even at social events.
• Mike is an abstainer when it comes to gambling.

This phrase describes someone who leads a healthy and wholesome lifestyle. It often implies avoiding habits considered unhealthy or harmful, such as smoking, drinking, or eating junk food.

• Lisa's friends admire her for being a clean-living person, always eating healthy and exercising.
• Paul is known as a clean-living person who avoids drugs and alcohol.

This repetition seems redundant. It’s used in the same context as previously mentioned, referring to a lifestyle choice primarily associated with sobriety and often linked to the punk subculture.

• Living a straightedge life means making healthier choices.
• Straightedge individuals often form close-knit communities.

This term refers to an individual who follows the straightedge lifestyle. It is often used to identify someone who adheres to the principles of being free from substance abuse and other potentially harmful behaviors.

• He's been a straight edger for almost a decade.
• The straight edgers in the group were admired for their commitment.

An abbreviation for ‘straightedge,’ often used in written text or in online discussions. It carries the same implications as the full term.

• He has an sXe tattoo on his arm.
• Joining the sXe community helped her find like-minded friends.

This phrase is typically used to describe individuals in the punk subculture who choose to avoid alcohol and drug use. It emphasizes the anti-drug and anti-alcohol stance within the punk community.

• The band promotes a drug-free punk message through their lyrics.
• A drug-free punk movement is gaining popularity among young people.