drinking
Drinking (noun) means the act of consuming a beverage, especially alcohol. Example: “His drinking became a concern for the family.”
How to Use Drinking
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishConsuming a drink, or (as an adjective) fit to be drunk, as in "drinking water."
Word Forms
more drinking comparative, drinkings plural, most drinking superlative
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
His _____ became a concern for the family.
Related Words
Rhymes for drinking
See all rhymes for drinking →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “drinking” mean?
The word “drinking” means the act of consuming a beverage, especially alcohol. In plain terms, consuming a drink, or (as an adjective) fit to be drunk, as in "drinking water.".
How do you pronounce “drinking”?
“Drinking” is pronounced DRIHNGK-ihng (/ˈdɹɪŋk.ɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “drinking” in a sentence?
Here is “drinking” used in a sentence: “His drinking became a concern for the family.”
What part of speech is “drinking”?
Depending on how it is used, “drinking” can be a noun and an adjective.
Is “drinking” a common word?
“Drinking” is a very common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “drinking” have?
“Drinking” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of consuming a beverage, especially alcohol.
Does 'drinking' always mean alcohol?
Not literally, but often by implication. On its own, drinking is simply consuming any beverage — water, tea, or juice. However, when someone is said to have a 'drinking problem' or to be 'out drinking,' the word usually refers to alcohol. Context makes clear whether alcohol is meant or just an ordinary drink.
What is an example of drinking?
Sipping a glass of water, having a cup of coffee, or enjoying a soft drink are all examples of drinking in the plain sense. In the narrower sense, drinking can mean consuming alcoholic beverages, as in social drinking at a celebration. Both describe the same basic act of taking in liquid.
Is drinking the same as being drunk?
No. Drinking is the act of consuming a beverage, while drunk describes the state of being affected by alcohol. You can drink without becoming drunk, especially with non-alcoholic or moderate amounts. 'Drunk' is also the past participle of the verb drink, which is why the two words are sometimes confused.