How Do You Spell DRUNK TANK?

Pronunciation: [dɹˈʌŋk tˈaŋk] (IPA)

The phrase "drunk tank" refers to a holding cell used by police to temporarily house individuals who have been arrested for public intoxication. The word "drunk" is pronounced [drʌŋk] and the word "tank" is pronounced [tæŋk]. The spelling of "drunk" is straightforward, but the spelling of "tank" may be less intuitive. The "a" is pronounced as a schwa [ə], and the "n" and "k" are merged together in a "ngk" sound. Thus, the IPA transcription of "drunk tank" is [drʌŋk tæŋk].

DRUNK TANK Meaning and Definition

1. A "drunk tank" is a colloquial term used to describe a temporary holding facility typically found in police stations or hospitals, specifically designed for the temporary detention of individuals who are intoxicated to a point where they are unable to take care of themselves or pose a danger to others. This term can also be referred to as a "drunk cell," "sobering center," or "intoxication room."

   Generally, a drunk tank is a secure and controlled environment where intoxicated individuals are held until they have sobered up sufficiently to be released safely or transferred to an appropriate facility for further assessment or treatment. The purpose of a drunk tank is not punitive but rather protective and preventative, aiming to ensure the safety and well-being of both the intoxicated persons and the general public.

   These facilities often have limited amenities, typically consisting of simple furnishings such as benches or cots, and may also include basic medical monitoring and supervision. They are usually staffed by healthcare providers or law enforcement personnel trained in managing intoxicated individuals and addressing their immediate needs.

   By providing a designated space for intoxicated individuals, a drunk tank aims to alleviate some of the burden on emergency rooms and prevent potential harm or accidents resulting from impaired judgment or coordination. It serves as a short-term solution to manage the care and safety of those who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, allowing them to sober up in a controlled environment before being released or referred for further assistance or treatment.

Common Misspellings for DRUNK TANK

• srunk tank
• xrunk tank
• crunk tank
• frunk tank
• rrunk tank
• erunk tank
• deunk tank
• ddunk tank
• dfunk tank
• dtunk tank
• d5unk tank
• d4unk tank
• drynk tank
• drhnk tank
• drjnk tank
• drink tank
• dr8nk tank
• dr7nk tank
• drubk tank

Etymology of DRUNK TANK

The term "drunk tank" originated in the early 20th century in the United States. It combines the words "drunk", referring to a person under the influence of alcohol, and "tank", a slang term for a detention cell or a prison cell.

The word "drunk" can be traced back to the Old English word "druncen", which meant "intoxicated" or "overcome by drink". Its origins can be found in the Proto-Germanic word "drunkan", meaning "to drink". Over time, "drunk" became the standard term to describe someone who is inebriated.

Similarly, the word "tank" has various meanings, but in this context, it essentially refers to a place of confinement for those who are intoxicated. This usage might have evolved from the idea of being confined in a metal tank, similarly to an actual tank used in warfare.

Idioms with the word DRUNK TANK

• drunk tank A "drunk tank" is a holding cell or location where intoxicated individuals are placed until they become sober. It is typically used by law enforcement as a safe place for individuals who are too drunk to take care of themselves or for public safety reasons.

Plural form of DRUNK TANK is DRUNK TANKS