Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈdrɪŋkər/

Definitions

• Noun: A person who drinks, especially alcoholic beverages.
• Noun: Someone who regularly consumes drinks, particularly alcoholic ones.
• Noun: A term used to describe someone involved in the act of drinking liquids in general.

Usage Examples

• He is known as a heavy drinker, often seen at the local pub.
• The drinker enjoyed his wine at the dinner party.
• At the event, many drinkers were enjoying a variety of beverages.

Etymology

The word "drinker" comes from the verb "drink," which has Old English origins from the word "drincan." The suffix "-er" is added to indicate a person who performs the action of drinking. The term has been used in English since the 14th century, primarily to describe someone who consumes liquids, especially alcoholic beverages.

Synonyms

• Tippler
• Swiller
• Imbiber
• Alcoholic (informally)
• Libationer

Antonyms

• Teetotaler
• Sobriety
• Abstainer
• Non-drinker
• Dry

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In various regions, the pronunciation of "drinker" can be influenced by local dialects. In some areas, the "r" sound might be rolled or softened. In British English, the "r" is often less pronounced than in American English, where it is more prominent. Additionally, some non-native speakers may stress different syllables based on regional speech patterns.

Historical Usage

The word "drinker" has been used for centuries to refer to someone who consumes liquids, particularly alcoholic beverages. In older texts, the word was often associated with a person who drank excessively, but over time, it has come to simply mean any person who drinks. The term "drinker" has evolved to become both a neutral and sometimes a descriptive term for those who consume alcohol, especially in social contexts.

Cultural Nuances

The term "drinker" carries different connotations across various cultures. In some societies, the word may carry a negative connotation, implying excessive drinking or addiction, while in others, it may be a neutral term used to describe social drinkers. Additionally, in cultures where drinking is part of social customs, the term "drinker" may simply refer to someone who participates in these traditions without judgment.

More Information

The word "drinker" is commonly used in discussions around health, addiction, and social behavior. It is often used to distinguish individuals based on their drinking habits, ranging from casual to habitual or excessive. In many contexts, especially in discussions of alcohol-related health issues, the term "drinker" is frequently associated with both the positive aspects of social interaction and the negative aspects of addiction and overconsumption.