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Definition of alcoholism

alcoholism

/ˈælkəhɒˌlɪzəm/
al · co · hol · ism
Adjective:alcoholic
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alcoholism Lexical Profile

alcoholism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A chronic medical disorder characterized by a physical and psychological dependence on alcoholic beverages and an inability to control one's drinking despite adverse consequences.

Example

"The community health center offers counseling and support groups for individuals recovering from alcoholism."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for alcoholism
Antonyms
View all antonyms for alcoholism

Word Nuance & Usage

In modern clinical and psychiatric usage, 'alcoholism' is increasingly replaced by the diagnostic term 'alcohol use disorder' (AUD) to reduce stigma and reflect a spectrum of severity.

• Nearby Words

alcohol
alcoholic
alcoholically
alcoholism
alcove
aldabra giant tortoise
alder

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1849 as Neo-Latin 'alcoholismus' by the Swedish physician Magnus Huss to describe the systematic adverse effects of excessive alcohol consumption.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Alcoholism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/alcoholism
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