12-step

adjective \ ˈtwelv-ˌstep \

Definition of 12-step

: of, relating to, characteristic of, or being a program that is designed especially to help an individual overcome an addiction, compulsion, serious shortcoming, or traumatic experience by adherence to 12 tenets emphasizing personal growth and dependence on a higher spiritual being

First Known Use of 12-step

1983

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

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Medical Dictionary

12-step

adjective \ ˈtwelv-ˌstep \

medical Definition of 12-step

: of, relating to, or characteristic of a program that is designed especially to help an individual overcome an addiction, compulsion, serious shortcoming, or traumatic experience by adherence to 12 tenets emphasizing personal growth and dependence on a higher spiritual being