The word “alcohol” is a common term in the English language, widely used in contexts ranging from chemistry to everyday conversations about beverages. Its significance lies in its dual meaning, referring both to a chemical compound and to alcoholic drinks consumed socially or recreationally. Understanding the alcohol meaning and usage can help clarify discussions in science, health, and culture.
Definition (Meaning)
Alcohol refers to a class of organic compounds characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group, with ethanol being the type commonly found in beverages. It also commonly means any drink containing ethanol, often associated with beer, wine, or spirits.
Synonyms
For the beverage context, alcohol synonyms include terms like liquor, spirits, booze, and drink. In a chemical context, specific types like ethanol or methanol may be used, though they are not direct synonyms.
Examples of alcohol in a Sentence
- She decided to avoid alcohol at the party to stay alert and drive home safely.
- In chemistry class, we learned that alcohol is used as a solvent in many reactions.
- The doctor advised him to limit his alcohol intake for better heart health.
Word History
The term “alcohol” originates from the Arabic word “al-kuḥl,” which initially referred to a fine powder used as eyeliner before evolving to mean distilled spirits in medieval alchemy. It entered English in the 16th century through Latin and Old French, originally denoting distilled substances. Over time, its meaning expanded to include both the chemical compound and the beverages we associate with the term today.