ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˌhȯˌlizəm, -_həˌl- sometimes -ˌhä- or ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˌliz- noun
( -s )
Etymology: New Latin alcoholismus, from New Latin alcohol + Latin -ismus -ism
1. : continuous and usually excessive use of alcoholic drinks ; usually : addiction especially when compulsive to excessive use of alcoholic drinks
2. : the state of being poisoned by alcohol ; specifically : the pathologic results of excessive use of alcoholic drinks — see acute alcoholism , chronic alcoholism