addiction etymology

Etymology:

The word "addiction" is derived from the Latin word "addictio," which means "surrender" or "devotion." It originally referred to the legal act of handing over a person into the custody of another, often as punishment for a crime.

Meaning:

In its modern usage, "addiction" refers to a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by:

• An overwhelming preoccupation with a substance or behavior
• Compulsive use or engagement despite negative consequences
• Difficulty controlling or quitting the substance or behavior
• Physiological dependence, in the case of substance addictions
• Negative impact on physical, mental, and social well-being

Origin:

The concept of addiction has been recognized for centuries. Early references to excessive drinking and drug use appear in ancient texts from various cultures, including:

• Egyptian papyrus scrolls (circa 1500 BC)
• Chinese medical treatises (circa 500 BC)
• Greek and Roman writings (circa 300-100 BC)

In the Middle Ages, addiction was often viewed as a moral failing or a sign of demonic possession. During the 18th and 19th centuries, medical and scientific research began to shed light on the physiological and psychological aspects of addiction.

In the 20th century, the concept of addiction evolved to include not only substance abuse but also behavioral addictions, such as gambling and internet use. Today, addiction is recognized as a complex disorder with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development.

addiction relate terms

• addict

  Etymology The word addict is derived from the Latin word addicere which means to a

• addicted

  Etymology Addicted comes from the Latin word addictus which means enslaved surren

• dependence

  Etymology The word dependence comes from the Latin word dependere which means to ha

• dependency

  Etymology of dependency Latin dependentia Middle French deppendence Old English

• habituation

  Etymology Late 17th century from Latin habitualis customary from habitus dres

• Jones

  Etymology The surname Jones originates from the Welsh patronymic ap Iôn meaning son

• clean

  Etymology The word clean comes from the Middle English word clene which is derived f

• institute

  Etymology The word institute comes from the Latin word institutum which means an es

• thank

  Etymology Origin Old English þancian from Proto Germanic þankōną from Proto In