Definition of addictionnext
as in dependence
a physiological need for certain drugs an addiction to heroin

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of addiction Methadone is one of just three medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat opioid addiction. Lev Facher, STAT, 25 June 2026 Religious services do not eliminate addiction. Walter Pavlo, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 The former Jackass star — whose real name is Stephen Glover — has been unflinchingly honest about his struggle with addiction. Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026 Jefferson also said in other letters that Lewis struggled with addiction, with alcoholism. Peter Larsen, Oc Register, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for addiction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for addiction
dependence
Noun
  • The next jolt was Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which spiked energy costs throughout Europe as its leaders tried to boycott their years of dependence on the Kremlin’s gas supplies.
    Alexander Smith, NBC news, 23 June 2026
  • Efforts to reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels by accelerating the transition to renewables increased energy costs and weighed on industrial competitiveness in the short term.
    Sebastian Buckup, Fortune, 23 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Addiction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/addiction. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

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