Definition

Noun: A person who is physically and psychologically dependent on the drug heroin. This dependence is characterized by a compulsive need to use the drug, often leading to significant health, social, and legal problems.

Usage

The term "heroin addict" is used to describe an individual suffering from heroin use disorder. It is a clinical and descriptive term, though it can be considered stigmatizing in some contexts. It is typically used in medical, journalistic, or sociological discussions.

Examples

• The documentary focused on the life of a heroin addict trying to recover.
• Support services in the city are available for heroin addicts seeking help.
• He was described in the court report as a long-term heroin addict.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be part of broader discussions about addiction, public health policy, and harm reduction strategies.
• In professional medical terminology, "person with heroin use disorder" is often preferred to reduce stigma.

Variants and Related Words

• Addict (n): A person who is addicted to a particular substance or activity. (e.g., ).
• Heroin addiction (n): The condition of being addicted to heroin.
• User (n): A more general and sometimes less formal term for a person who uses drugs, including heroin. (e.g., ).

Synonyms

• Junkie (slang, often derogatory)
• User (general)
• Opioid-dependent individual (clinical)

Related Phrases

• "Seeking treatment for heroin addiction": This phrase describes the action of an addict trying to get help.
• "The plight of the heroin addict": A phrase used to discuss the difficult circumstances faced by individuals addicted to heroin.

Noun

1. someone addicted to heroin