teetotalism

noun

tee·​to·​tal·​ism ˈtē-ˈtō-tᵊl-ˌi-zəm How to pronounce teetotalism (audio)
-ˌtō-
: the principle or practice of complete abstinence from alcoholic drinks
teetotalist noun

Examples of teetotalism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Drink makers are also facing an existential threat from a growing tide of teetotalism, especially from Gen Z drinkers. Ryan Hogg, Fortune Europe, 30 Jan. 2024 Among Cogswell’s obsessions was teetotalism. John Kelly, Washington Post, 27 Aug. 2022 Colorado Off-Slope Experience Even though Utah has a reputation for tilting toward teetotalism, this battle isn’t a walkover for Colorado. Julie Jag, The Salt Lake Tribune, 19 Dec. 2022 For the past few years, Americans have increasingly dabbled with teetotalism. Paul Stephen, ExpressNews.com, 25 Jan. 2020 Perhaps a sequel might suggest that Adolf Hitler’s teetotalism put him in a tetchy mood; a relaxing glass of schnapps might have kept him out of Poland. New York Times, 30 May 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'teetotalism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of teetotalism was in 1834

Dictionary Entries Near teetotalism

Cite this Entry

“Teetotalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/teetotalism. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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