Definition of alcoholic

The word "alcoholic" originated from the Latin words "alcohlis," meaning "alum" or "prickly wort," and the Greek suffix "-ikos," meaning "pertaining to." The term "alcoholic" was first used in the 16th century to describe a type of plant, Solanum pseudocapsicum, also known as "alcolja" or "prickly eruca," which was believed to have medicinal properties. Later, in the 18th century, the term "alcoholic" was used to describe a type of fermentation process, specifically the fermentation of grains and fruits to produce alcohol. Over time, the term came to be associated with the consumption of alcohol, particularly in the context of addiction. Today, the term "alcoholic" is widely used to describe a person who is addicted to alcohol or has a chronic disease of alcoholism, characterized by compulsive and excessive drinking despite negative consequences.