Binge drinking is a term that is commonly used to describe the act of consuming large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time. It is a dangerous behavior that can lead to a variety of negative consequences, including alcohol poisoning, accidents, and even death. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of binge drinking, its origins, and its associations.
Definitions
Binge drinking is defined as the consumption of a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time, typically with the intention of becoming intoxicated. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines binge drinking as a pattern of drinking that brings a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08 grams percent or above. This usually occurs when men consume five or more drinks, or women consume four or more drinks, in about two hours.
Origin
The term “binge drinking” originated in the United Kingdom in the 1980s. It was used to describe the behavior of college students who would consume large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time, often during a weekend or other social event. The term has since been adopted in other countries, including the United States.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, binge drinking is “the consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period of time.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “the consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period of time, typically to the point of drunkenness.”
Associations
Binge drinking is associated with a variety of negative consequences, including alcohol poisoning, accidents, injuries, violence, and risky sexual behavior. It can also lead to long-term health problems, such as liver disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Synonyms
Synonyms for binge drinking include heavy drinking, excessive drinking, and alcohol abuse.
Antonyms
Antonyms for binge drinking include moderation and responsible drinking.
The same root words
The root words of binge drinking are “binge” and “drink.” Binge refers to a period of excessive behavior, while drink refers to the consumption of a liquid, typically an alcoholic beverage.
Example Sentences
- “She went out with her friends and ended up binge drinking, which led to her getting sick.”
- “Binge drinking is a serious problem on college campuses, and many universities are taking steps to address it.”
- “He realized that his binge drinking was becoming a problem and decided to seek help.”