alcoholism

noun

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al·co·hol·ism | \ ˈal-kə-ˌhȯ-ˌli-zəm

, -kə-hə- \

Definition of alcoholism

1 : continued excessive or compulsive use of alcoholic drinks

2a : a chronic, a progressive, potentially fatal disorder marked by excessive and usually compulsive drinking of alcohol leading to psychological and physical dependence or addiction

Note: Alcoholism is typically characterized by the inability to control alcoholic drinking, impairment of the ability to work and socialize, tendency to drink alone and engage in violent behavior, neglect of physical appearance and proper nutrition, alcohol-related illness (such as hepatitis or cirrhosis of the liver), and moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms (such as irritability, anxiety, tremors, insomnia, and confusion) upon detoxification.

b : acute alcohol poisoning resulting from the usually rapid consumption of excessive alcoholic beverages

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Examples of alcoholism in a Sentence

a treatment center for those suffering from alcoholism

Recent Examples on the Web Terminated due to his ongoing issues with alcoholism, Sarkisian checked into a rehab facility, reemerging later as offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons in 2017 and 2018. — Nick Moyle, ExpressNews.com, "Alabama OC Steve Sarkisian will be Texas' next head coach," 2 Jan. 2021 It’s an unflinching biography of the former Yankees lefthander, including his struggles with alcoholism . . . — Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, "Baseball’s offseason moves are off to a slow start," 2 Jan. 2021 John Mulaney, a stand-up comedian and writer who has been open about past struggles with alcoholism and drug addiction, has reportedly checked into rehab. — Charles Trepany, USA TODAY, "John Mulaney reportedly checks into rehabilitation program; comedians express support," 22 Dec. 2020 His glittering career, which included helping Napoli to its first league title in 1987, was also marked by numerous controversies and his notorious lifestyle led to alcoholism and addiction. — George Ramsay, CNN, "Diego Maradona lying in honor at Argentina's presidential palace," 26 Nov. 2020 Lamott’s nonfiction works are largely autobiographical and span such topics as alcoholism, relationships, single motherhood, depression, religion and personal growth. — David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, "Arts & Culture Newsletter: Los Lobos, livestreamed from the Belly Up, felt like the real deal," 10 Sep. 2020 The show’s candor about the topic comes in part from the input of sober living people and people with familial experiences with alcoholism. — Ashley Lee Staff Writer, Los Angeles Times, "How ‘The Flight Attendant’ blew up the book to get its finale just right," 17 Dec. 2020 Sabathia, who pitched for the Indians from 2001-2008 and won the Cy Young Award with the team in 2007, narrates the documentary, which also covers his battle with alcoholism. — cleveland, "CC Sabathia documentary ‘Under the Grapefruit Tree’ to premiere on HBO," 1 Dec. 2020 There was alcoholism, drug use and connections with the Neapolitan mafia, with the icon partying from Sunday to Wednesday at the height of his fame. — Ben Church, CNN, "Naples mourns Diego Maradona as his former club bids to rename the stadium in his honor," 26 Nov. 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'alcoholism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Dictionary Entries near alcoholism

alcohol of crystallization

alcoholytic

alcometer

Statistics for alcoholism

Last Updated

12 Jan 2021

Cite this Entry

“Alcoholism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alcoholism. Accessed 27 Jan. 2021.

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More Definitions for alcoholism

alcoholism

noun

English Language Learners Definition of alcoholism

: a medical condition in which someone frequently drinks too much alcohol and becomes unable to live a normal and healthy life

See the full definition for alcoholism in the English Language Learners Dictionary

alcoholism

noun

al·co·hol·ism | \ ˈal-kə-ˌhȯ-ˌliz-əm

Kids Definition of alcoholism

: continued, uncontrolled, and greater than normal use of alcoholic drinks accompanied by physical and mental dependence on alcohol

alcoholism

noun

al·co·hol·ism | \ ˈal-kə-ˌhȯ-ˌliz-əm, -kə-hə-

Medical Definition of alcoholism

1 : continued excessive or compulsive use of alcoholic drinks

2 : a chronic, progressive, potentially fatal disorder marked by excessive and usually compulsive drinking of alcohol leading to psychological and physical dependence or addiction

— compare acute alcoholism

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