binge

The word “binge” means a short spell of doing something, especially eating, drinking, or watching something, to excess. In plain terms, to go overboard with something for a short burst — classically food, drink, or TV.

“Binge” is pronounced bihnj (/bɪnd͡ʒ/ in IPA).

Here is “binge” used in a sentence: “After exams she went on a chocolate binge.”

Depending on how it is used, “binge” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “binge” comes from Old English. From an old English dialect word meaning to soak or drench something thoroughly — the idea of "soaking" something extended naturally to over-indulging in food or drink.

“Binge” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Binge” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a short spell of doing something, especially eating, drinking, or watching something, to excess.

"Binge" is the general noun or verb for a short spell of excessive eating, drinking, or other activity, while "binge-watch" is a specific compound verb meaning to watch multiple episodes of a show in one sitting. Binge-watching is just one common example of the broader pattern of binging.

"Binge" is common in everyday, informal speech and writing, though it also appears in clinical contexts such as "binge eating disorder." It isn't slang, but it sits comfortably in both casual and semi-formal registers.

Both describe a short burst of excessive activity, but "binge" is used mostly for consuming things like food, drink, or media, while "spree" more often describes activities like shopping or spending. A binge implies indulgence to excess, whereas a spree emphasizes an unrestrained, energetic burst of activity.