Definition

A condition where a person has consumed too much alcohol and is unable to think or act normally.

Example

His drunkenness led to poor decisions at the party.

Conversation

Have you ever seen someone lose control because of drunkenness?

Yeah, it's kind of sad to watch, isn't it?

Definitely, it can really change a person.

I prefer to enjoy my drinks without reaching that point.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Drunkenness is formed from "drunk" (the past participle of "drink", from Old English "drincan", meaning to consume liquid) and "-ness" (a suffix meaning the state or quality of). The word "drunkenness" refers to the state of being drunk or intoxicated.

Memory Tip

Think of the state of having consumed liquid ('drink') and how that leads to being in a certain condition ('-ness'). This helps you remember that drunkenness is the state of being drunk.

Visually Confused Words