Twelve Step

or 12-step

adjective

1. of or based on a program for recovery from addiction originating with Alcoholics Anonymous and providing 12 progressive levels toward attainment.

twelve-step

adjective

1. of or relating to a method of treatment for addiction which consists of twelve stages and stresses the need for patients to acknowledge their problem and to take personal responsibility for it

Other Words From

• 12-stepper noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Twelve Step¹

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

"A patient's treatment plan may include medication, seeing a trauma specialist or getting more support from Twelve Step meetings, depending on an individual’s needs."

From Salon

One movement that exemplifies the “spiritual but not religious” ethos is the Twelve Step sobriety program, pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous and adopted by other recovery groups.

From Seattle Times

The "twelve step" groups and programs are unquestioningly very helpful to a self-selecting group of people.

From Salon

In addition, the central offices of regional Twelve Step groups have jumped in to show what meetings are canceled and which are replaced by chat, video or email.

From New York Times

Alcoholics and drug addicts in recovery frequently warn each other that isolation is a route to relapse; going to in-person Twelve Step meetings, sharing personal stories and talking with other addicts and alcoholics is a means of connection for many in recovery.

From New York Times