alcoholism Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun habitual intoxication; prolonged and excessive intake of alcoholic drinks leading to a breakdown in health and an addiction to alcohol such that abrupt deprivation leads to severe withdrawal symptoms
inebriation; drunkenness; alcohol addiction.
noun an intense persistent desire to drink alcoholic beverages to excess
dipsomania; potomania.

Cf. F. alcoolisme.

(Med.) A diseased condition of the system, brought about by the continued use of alcoholic liquors.