Toper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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toper
[ˈtəʊpər ]
Definition
informal drinking
A person who drinks alcohol to excess; a heavy drinker.
Synonyms
alcoholic, drunkard, lush, souse.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toper |
Often used in a more literary or old-fashioned context to describe someone who drinks alcohol habitually.
|
| drunkard |
This term typically has a negative connotation and is used to describe someone who is often drunk and lacking control over their drinking habits.
|
| alcoholic |
This is the clinical term for someone suffering from alcoholism, and it is used in medical or serious conversations.
|
| lush |
A somewhat slang or colloquial term to refer to someone who drinks alcohol frequently, often used in a more humorous or less formal manner.
|
| souse |
An old-fashioned and slightly derogatory term to describe someone who is drunk or habitually drunk.
|
Examples of usage
- He was known as the office toper, always the last one at the bar.
- She couldn't control her drinking and eventually became a toper.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Perception
- In literature, toper characters often represent a carefree, fun-loving spirit, adding humor and conflict to stories.
- Throughout history, being a toper has had both positive and negative connotations, reflecting society's view on drinking.
Psychology
- Studies show that social drinking can influence group dynamics, creating bonds among toper individuals.
- Excessive drinking can lead to dependence, demonstrating the complexity of social versus unhealthy drinking behaviors.
Pop Culture
- Toper characters are prevalent in movies and songs, often portrayed as the life of the party, like in various comedies.
- Musicians, especially in genres like country and rock, frequently write songs about toppers, capturing the ups and downs of drinking culture.
Health Considerations
- Regular excessive drinking, as practiced by some toppers, can lead to long-term health issues, including liver disease.
- Public health campaigns often target the behavior associated with being a toper to promote responsible drinking habits.
Origin of 'toper'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'toper' comes from the mid-16th century, originating from the verb 'tope', which means to drink alcohol.
- It was often used in England to refer to someone who drinks to excess, highlighting a social drinking culture.
The term 'toper' originated in the 17th century from the obsolete verb 'tope', meaning to drink excessively. It has been used to describe heavy drinkers and alcoholics ever since.