Alcoholic

Definition

Alcoholic can be used as both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes anything related to or containing alcohol. As a noun, it refers to a person who has an addiction to or dependency on alcohol.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌælkəˈhɑlɪk/
• Respelling: al-kuh-HOL-ik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌælkəˈhɒlɪk/
• Respelling: al-kuh-HOL-ik

The pronunciation of "alcoholic" varies slightly between American and British English, primarily in the vowel sound of the last syllable.

Etymology

The word "alcoholic" is derived from "alcohol," which comes from the Arabic "al-kuḥl," originally referring to a finely powdered antimony used as an eyeliner. The meaning evolved over time to refer to distilled spirits, and by the 18th century, "alcoholic" described substances related to or containing alcohol.

Derivatives

• Alcohol (noun)
• Alcoholism (noun)
• Nonalcoholic (adjective)
• Alcoholize (verb)
• Alcoholic beverage (noun phrase)

Synonyms

• Intoxicant
• Liquor-related
• Alcohol-dependent (for noun)

Antonyms

• Sober
• Nonalcoholic
• Teetotaler (for noun)

Usage

The term "alcoholic" is commonly used to describe both alcoholic beverages and individuals who have an addiction to alcohol. For example, "He avoided alcoholic drinks at the party" or "She has struggled as an alcoholic for years."

Related Terms

• Intoxication: The state of being under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
• Sobriety: The condition of not being under the influence of alcohol.
• Dependency: A reliance on a substance, often to the point of addiction.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Containing or related to alcohol: Used to describe beverages, products, or effects associated with alcohol.
  • Example: "The restaurant serves a wide range of alcoholic beverages."

Noun

• A person addicted to alcohol: Refers to an individual with a dependence on or addiction to alcohol.
  • Example: "He sought treatment as an alcoholic to help manage his addiction."