alcoholism

[ al-kuh-haw-liz-uhm, -ho- ]

noun

1. (not in technical use as a medical diagnosis, alcohol use disorder ) a chronic illness characterized by dependence on alcohol, repeated excessive use of alcoholic beverages, the development of withdrawal symptoms upon reducing or ceasing intake, morbidity that may include cirrhosis of the liver, and decreased ability to function socially and professionally.

alcoholism

/ ˈælkəhɒˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. a condition in which dependence on alcohol harms a person's health, social functioning, or family life

alcoholism

/ ăl′kə-hô-lĭz′əm /

1. A progressive, potentially fatal disease characterized by the excessive and compulsive consumption of alcoholic beverages and physiological and psychological dependence on alcohol. Chronic alcoholism usually results in liver and other organ damage, nutritional deficiencies and impaired social functioning.

alcoholism

1. A chronic disease associated with the excessive and habitual use of alcohol; the disease, if left unattended, worsens and can kill the sufferer. Alcoholism is marked by physical dependency and can cause disorders in many organs of the body, including the liver ( see cirrhosis ), stomach , intestines , and brain . It is also associated with abnormal heart rhythms, with certain cancers , and, because of loss of appetite, with poor nutrition. The cause of alcoholism is very complicated and most often involves a mixture of physical, psychological, and possibly genetic factors.

Word History and Origins

Origin of alcoholism¹

First recorded in 1855–60; alcohol + -ism

Example Sentences

Despite being set more than 70 years apart, London nightlife scenes in the World War II drama “Blitz” and “The Outrun’s” 21st century tale of alcoholism and recovery each display a 1930s influence.

From Los Angeles Times

Wiles, 67, is one of Pat and Kathy Summerall’s three children and her father credited her with prompting him to check into the Betty Ford Clinic for treatment of his chronic alcoholism.

From Los Angeles Times

Peggy’s first husband, Jack Archer, succumbed to alcoholism, while her second husband Jack Woolley – with whom she hoped to enjoy a happy retirement - was diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

From BBC

She was a legend even when she was deep in the throes of her alcoholism.

From Salon

“This Time Each Year” feels like a good example of bringing a different kind of depth to the holiday story; the central couple is going through challenges — they’re separated, and alcoholism is touched on.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• addiction
• alcohol abuse
• alcohol addiction
• alcohol dependence
• substance abuse