Definition

Noun: A person who is physically and psychologically dependent on a narcotic drug or drugs, characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and use despite harmful consequences.

Usage

The term "drug addict" is used to describe an individual with a severe substance use disorder. It is a direct and often clinical term. While precise, it can carry a strong negative stigma. In modern, person-first language, terms like "a person with a substance use disorder" or "someone struggling with addiction" are often preferred in medical and social service contexts to emphasize the individual over the condition.

Examples

• The documentary followed the life of a drug addict trying to rebuild his life.
• She sought help at a rehabilitation center for drug addicts.
• The counselor explained that a drug addict's brain chemistry is fundamentally altered.

Advanced Usage

• "Hardened drug addict": This phrase emphasizes a long-term, severe addiction that is perceived as difficult to treat.
  • The outreach program aims to connect even the most hardened drug addicts with support services.

Variants and Related Words

• Addict (n): A more general term for a person addicted to any substance or activity (e.g., a drug addict, a gambling addict).
• Substance abuser (n): A person who uses illegal or legal drugs in a harmful way; this term can be broader than "addict," as it may include misuse without full physical dependence.
• Junkie (n): A highly informal, often derogatory slang term for a drug addict, particularly one addicted to heroin.
• User (n): A common, somewhat informal term for a person who uses drugs, often implying regular or habitual use.

Synonyms

• Narcotics addict
• Substance-dependent individual

Related Phrases

• To be addicted to drugs: The state of being a drug addict.
  • He was addicted to drugs for over a decade before seeking treatment.
• Drug addiction (n): The condition or disease itself, rather than the person.
  • Drug addiction is a complex chronic brain disease.

Noun

1. a narcotics addict