addiction

[ uh-dik-shuhn ]

noun

1. the state of being compulsively committed to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma.

addiction

/ ə-dĭk′shən /

1. A physical or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, such as a drug or alcohol. In physical addiction, the body adapts to the substance being used and gradually requires increased amounts to reproduce the effects originally produced by smaller doses.
2. See more at withdrawal
3. A habitual or compulsive involvement in an activity, such as gambling.

Sensitive Note

See addict.

Other Words From

• o·ver·ad·dic·tion noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of addiction¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Latin addictiōn- (stem of addictiō ) “a giving over, surrender”; addict, -ion

Example Sentences

Denzel Washington is almost a decade sober and he's ready to open up about his experiences with addiction.

From Salon

Police say Sararat, dubbed Am Cyanide by Thai media, had a gambling addiction and targeted friends she owed money to, then stole their jewellery and valuables.

From BBC

He said he has family members who struggled with drug addiction and homelessness for years before finding their footing, and the city can’t wait years before taking back its streets.

From Los Angeles Times

Though many homeless people struggle with addiction and mental illness, the strongest driver of homelessness is the lack of affordable housing, research shows.

From Los Angeles Times

While the backlash was off-limits during our conversation, Macpherson considers the chapters about her cancer journey and treatment for alcohol addiction to be the most revealing.

From Los Angeles Times