Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Causing intoxication: Having the quality of producing a state of intoxication, which can be a literal physical state from alcohol or drugs, or a powerful, overwhelming emotional state.
   • Extremely exciting, thrilling, or exhilarating: Producing a feeling of great excitement, euphoria, or elation, similar to the effect of a stimulant.

Usage and Examples

• Literal (related to substances):

  • The bartender served a potent and intoxicating cocktail.
  • The law prohibits the sale of intoxicating substances to minors.

• Figurative (related to powerful feelings or experiences):

  • She felt the intoxicating rush of freedom after graduating.
  • The intoxicating scent of jasmine filled the night air.
  • He was swept away by the intoxicating rhythm of the music.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "Intoxicating effect": The powerful influence or impact that causes a heady, euphoric feeling.

  • The intoxicating effect of her praise made him work even harder.

• "Intoxicating beauty/power": Used to describe an overwhelming, almost dizzying quality of something abstract.

  • The intoxicating power of fame can be dangerous.

Variants and Related Words

• Intoxicate (verb): To make someone lose control of their faculties or judgment, typically from alcohol or drugs; to excite or exhilarate greatly.

  • The idea of adventure intoxicated him.

• Intoxicated (adjective): Affected by alcohol or drugs to the point of losing control; or, powerfully excited or elated.

  • He was intoxicated by the victory.

• Intoxication (noun): The state of being intoxicated, either literally or figuratively.

  • The intoxication of first love is unforgettable.

Synonyms

• Exhilarating: Making one feel very happy, animated, or elated.
• Heady: Having a strong or exhilarating effect.
• Inebriating (more formal/literal): Making someone intoxicated, especially with alcohol.
• Thrilling: Causing excitement and pleasure.

Antonyms

• Sobering: Making someone serious or thoughtful; having a calming, realistic effect.
• Boring: Not interesting; tedious.
• Nauseating: Causing nausea; disgusting or offensive.

Adjective

1. extremely exciting as if by alcohol or a narcotic
2. causing