alcoholic

This term carries a heavy clinical and social weight. When used as a noun, it often implies a loss of control and a chronic medical condition, though in casual settings it can be used as a harsh label or a self-deprecating admission of a drinking problem. It suggests a state of compulsion rather than simple enjoyment of drink. As an adjective, the word is neutral and descriptive, referring to the chemical properties of a substance. It is used in technical, medical, or culinary contexts to identify the presence of ethanol without any judgment of character or health.