alcohol
/ˈæl.kə.hɒl/
In a chemical or medical context, it refers to the pure substance—a clear, sharp-smelling liquid used for sterilization or as a solvent. It carries a clinical, sterile connotation here. In a social or lifestyle context, it is a collective term for all intoxicating beverages. In this usage, it often carries a weight of caution, health concern, or social regulation (e.g., 'alcohol abuse' or 'alcohol laws'). Unlike 'liquor', which specifically refers to distilled spirits, 'alcohol' is the broader umbrella term covering everything from low-percentage beer to high-percentage vodka.
Uncountable when referring to the chemical substance or drinks in general ('Alcohol is banned on campus'). Countable when discussing specific types of alcohols, such as methanol and ethanol, in a chemistry context.
💬Casual Conversation
Did you seriously bring that cheap stuff? We needed proper alcohol.
It's an artisanal blend. Very cost-effective given the market volatility.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
alcohol consumption
The act or practice of drinking alcoholic beverages.
The study focused on the effects of alcohol consumption on cognitive function.
alcohol abuse
The excessive or harmful use of alcohol.
He sought help for his alcohol abuse.
alcohol dependence
A chronic disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over alcohol intake, and a negative emotional state when not using the substance.
She is struggling with alcohol dependence.
alcohol-free
Containing no alcohol.
The restaurant offers a wide range of alcohol-free drinks.
ethyl alcohol
The type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages and used as a solvent and fuel; ethanol.
The primary intoxicating agent in drinks is ethyl alcohol.
Idioms & Sayings
under the influence of alcohol
Being affected by alcohol to the point where judgment, coordination, and reaction time are impaired.
It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol.
Etymology
The word 'alcohol' comes from the Arabic word 'al-kuhl,' which referred to a fine powder or essence obtained by sublimation, often used as an eye cosmetic. Through a process of semantic shift, the term came to mean 'the distilled essence of wine' in the Middle Ages, and eventually, any intoxicating spirit. The English word was adopted in the 17th century.