Main Entry: al·co·hol·ism

Pronunciation: \ˈal-kə-ˌhȯ-ˌli-zəm, -kə-hə-\

Function: noun

Date: 1860

1 : continued excessive or compulsive use of alcoholic drinks
2 a : poisoning by alcohol b : a chronic disorder marked by excessive and usually compulsive drinking of alcohol leading to psychological and physical dependence or addiction