Main Entry: ad·dic·tion

Pronunciation: \ə-ˈdik-shən\

Function: noun

: compulsive physiological need for and use of a habit-forming substance (as heroin, nicotine, or alcohol) characterized by tolerance and by well-defined physiological symptoms upon withdrawal ; broadly : persistent compulsive use of a substance known by the user to be physically, psychologically, or socially harmful—compare habituation