Vocabulary Spotlight
Addiction
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity, often despite harmful consequences.
“His addiction to video games affected his performance in school.”
Pronunciation
[uh-DIK-shuhn]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Habit
Compulsion
Obsession
Fixation
Antonyms
Independence
Self-control
Freedom
Moderation
Related Words
Reliance
Urge
Word Origin
“Addiction” comes from the Latin word “addictio,” meaning “a giving over or surrender.”
Word Family
Noun: Addiction – A compulsive dependence on a substance or activity.
Adjective: Addictive – Causing or likely to cause addiction.
Noun: Addict – A person who is addicted to something.
Mnemonics
Think “A Diction with Repetition” – Addiction is a compulsive behavior repeated continuously.
Industry-specific Usage
Healthcare
Addiction refers to a physical or psychological dependency, often treated through therapy and rehabilitation.
Psychology
In psychology, addiction is studied to understand compulsive behaviors and improve treatments.
Social Science
In social science, addiction studies focus on its impact on individuals and communities.
In Context
Addiction is commonly associated with substance abuse but can also refer to compulsive behaviors, where the person struggles to control their dependency.