Addiction

Definition

Addiction is a noun that refers to a chronic condition characterized by the compulsive use or engagement in behaviors or substances despite negative consequences. It often involves psychological or physical dependency.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈdɪkʃən/
• Respelling: uh-DIK-shuhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈdɪkʃən/
• Respelling: uh-DIK-shuhn

The pronunciation of "addiction" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "addiction" originates from the Latin "addictio," meaning "a giving over" or "surrender," derived from "addicere," meaning "to assign" or "to give to." The term evolved in English to denote a dependence or compulsion toward a particular substance or activity.

Derivatives

• Addict (noun/verb)
• Addictive (adjective)
• Addicted (adjective)
• Non-addictive (adjective)
• Readdiction (noun)

Synonyms

• Dependency
• Compulsion
• Habit

Antonyms

• Freedom
• Independence
• Disinterest

Usage

The term "addiction" is frequently used in medical, psychological, and social contexts to describe a strong dependency on substances like drugs or alcohol, or behaviors such as gambling. For example, "He struggled with an addiction to alcohol," or "Behavioral addiction, such as gaming, can be challenging to treat." The term implies a lack of control over usage or behavior despite adverse effects.

Related Terms

• Dependence: A state of relying on or needing something for support.
• Withdrawal: Symptoms experienced when discontinuing an addictive substance or behavior.
• Rehabilitation: The process of treatment to restore one’s health and manage addiction.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A chronic dependence on substances or behaviors: Refers to a persistent compulsion toward a habit-forming substance or action despite harmful consequences.
  • Example: "Her addiction to nicotine made it difficult to quit smoking."
• A psychological or physical compulsion: Describes the condition where an individual feels compelled to continue certain behaviors or use substances.
  • Example: "The addiction to social media is common among teenagers."