Definition

A substance that causes a person to become intoxicated, particularly alcoholic drinks.

Example

Many people enjoy a glass of wine as an intoxicant during dinner.

Conversation

Have you ever tried that new cocktail place downtown?

Not yet, but I heard their drinks are quite the intoxicant.

Yeah, I've read that they use unique ingredients to create amazing flavors.

I’m excited to check it out this weekend!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Intoxicant is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "toxicum" (from Latin, meaning poison). The word refers to a substance that brings one into a state of poisoning or intoxication.

Memory Tip

Think of something that brings you 'into' ('in-') a state of 'poisoning' ('toxicum') — that's why an intoxicant is a substance that causes intoxication.

Visually Confused Words