drunk

The word “drunk” means impaired by drinking too much alcohol. In plain terms, being under the strong influence of alcohol; also used as a noun for someone in that state or who drinks heavily.

“Drunk” is pronounced druhngk (/dɹʌŋk/ in IPA).

Here is “drunk” used in a sentence: “He was too drunk to drive home safely.”

Words with a similar meaning to “drunk” include Adrian Quist, adrip, aled up, all mops and brooms, arseholed and a sheet in the wind.

The opposite of “drunk” — its antonyms — are abstemious, clean, clearheaded, sober and on the wagon.

Depending on how it is used, “drunk” can be an adjective and a noun.

The word “drunk” comes from Old English. The past participle of "drink," from Old English druncen — the same root behind "drunken.".

“Drunk” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

"Drank" is the simple past tense of "drink" — "she drank the water." "Drunk" is the past participle, used with "have" — "she has drunk the water" — and also works as an adjective meaning impaired by alcohol: "he was drunk." Saying "I drunk it" is a common but nonstandard mistake.

"Drunk" is a plain, direct, everyday word rather than a formal one. In formal, legal, or medical writing you will more often see "intoxicated" or "under the influence." Everyday speech offers many casual alternatives too, such as "tipsy" for mildly affected. "Drunk" sits comfortably in the neutral middle.

Both describe the effects of alcohol, but they differ in degree. "Tipsy" suggests a mild, early stage — slightly light-headed or giddy after a drink or two. "Drunk" describes a stronger state, where speech, balance, and judgement are noticeably impaired. Tipsy is the gentler, more light-hearted of the two.