Meaning & use

addiction

noun·Everyday

A strong, compulsive physical or psychological need for a substance or behavior, despite harmful consequences.

See it in a sentence

He finally sought treatment for his addiction after years of denial.

Doctors are increasingly concerned about smartphone addiction among teenagers.

A note on using this word

Addiction can refer to substances like drugs and alcohol as well as behaviors, such as gambling or internet use.

Words with a similar meaning

dependencycompulsion

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Make it your own

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