Pronunciation: [ˈalki] (IPA) 
The word "alkie" is slang for an alcoholic. It is spelled with an "ie" at the end instead of a "y" because it is meant to be an informal and colloquial term. The IPA phonetic transcription for "alkie" is /ˈælki/. The stress of the word is on the first syllable, with a short "a" sound as in "cat". The second syllable has a long "e" sound as in "key". The spelling of "ie" represents the combination of the two sounds in the word.
Alkie is a slang term commonly used to refer to an alcoholic or someone who is addicted to alcohol. The term, derived from the word "alcoholic," is typically used in an informal and derogatory manner. The term carries a negative connotation and is often used to demean or stigmatize individuals suffering from alcohol addiction.
An alkie is characterized by a compulsive and habitual consumption of alcoholic beverages, leading to a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. This addiction interferes with their ability to function normally in various aspects of life, such as relationships, work, and personal health. Alkies may exhibit behaviors such as an inability to control their drinking, continued consumption despite negative consequences, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit.
The term alkie originated from the need for a concise and colloquial way to refer to individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. However, it is crucial to note that using this term can perpetuate stereotypes and may contribute to further stigmatization of those seeking help for their addiction. It is generally more respectful and empathetic to use terms such as "person with alcohol addiction" or "individual in recovery" to convey the same meaning without contributing to negative associations.
The etymology of the word "alkie" can be traced back to the term "alcoholics", which refers to individuals suffering from alcoholism. "Alkie" is a colloquial abbreviation or slang term derived from "alcoholics". It is used to refer to someone who is dependent on alcohol or frequently indulges in excessive drinking. The word likely emerged as a shorthand expression within certain social groups or communities as a way to quickly and informally refer to individuals struggling with alcohol addiction.
