Meaning 1neutral · 85%
A long-term condition in which someone has difficulty controlling their drinking of alcohol despite harmful effects.
Natural examples
Alcoholism affects families as well as individuals.
He received support for alcoholism several years ago.
Recovery from alcoholism often requires ongoing support.
Usage note
Alcoholism is widely understood, but alcohol use disorder is often preferred in clinical contexts.
Useful combinations
struggle with alcoholism — experience difficulties caused by alcohol dependence