The spelling of the word "drunkenness" can be a bit tricky to master. The word includes several consonant clusters, as well as an unusual combination of vowels. To spell this word correctly, use the IPA phonetic transcription: /ˈdrʌŋkənnɪs/. This indicates that the word is pronounced with a short "u" sound followed by the "ng" consonant cluster, and then the "k" and "n" sounds. The final syllable includes a short "i" sound followed by the "n" and "s" sounds. With practice, confidently spelling "drunkenness" can become second nature.
Drunkenness is a state of being intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or other substances to the point where one's mental and physical faculties are impaired. It is the condition of excessive drinking or the act of consuming alcohol in such quantities that it causes noticeable behavioral and physiological changes.
In its physical manifestations, drunkenness often leads to uncoordinated movements, slurred speech, impaired judgment, decreased reaction time, and loss of inhibitions. It can impair motor skills, decision-making abilities, and reasoning capabilities, rendering individuals more prone to accidents, injuries, and risky behaviors. This state of intoxication is typically accompanied by an altered mental state, where individuals might experience confusion, altered perception of reality, emotional instability, and memory lapses.
Drunkenness can have various effects on individuals, ranging from feelings of euphoria and relaxation, to heightened aggression and irritability. Alcohol-induced drunkenness is often associated with negative consequences, such as increased susceptibility to violence, impaired interactions with others, and impaired overall functioning. Prolonged and excessive drunkenness can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage, addiction, and dependency on alcohol.
From a societal perspective, drunkenness is commonly discouraged due to its potential negative impacts on personal, social, and professional life. It is frequently regulated or even illegal in certain contexts, such as public intoxication laws. Various cultures and societies have developed different attitudes towards drunkenness, with some viewing it as socially acceptable in moderation, while others consider it morally wrong or indicative of problematic behavior.
Alcoholic intoxication.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Habitual intemperance.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "drunkenness" originates from the Middle English term "drunkennesse", which was formed by adding the suffix "-nesse" (which indicates a state or condition) to the adjective "drunken". The adjective "drunken" can be traced back to the Old English word "druncen", which means "intoxicated" or "drunk". This Old English term, in turn, is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "drunkanaz". The Proto-Germanic root "drunkan-" has a similar meaning and is believed to be linked to the Proto-Indo-European root "*dreh₁ǵʰ-", meaning "to turn" or "to be turbid" - possibly indicating a spinning sensation experienced when intoxicated.