addiction

noun

ə-ˈdik-shən How to pronounce addiction (audio)
Definition of addictionnext
as in dependence
a physiological need for certain drugs an addiction to heroin

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of addiction Studies show that higher temperatures are linked to higher rates of visits to the Emergency Department for mental health conditions and addiction. — Carmel Wroth, NPR, 2 July 2026 Cherokee leaders frame the project as an existential response to surging opioid deaths in rural communities, aiming to protect language and future generations from addiction’s toll. — Sarah Liese, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026 Best known for playing Ziggy Sobotka on season 2 of The Wire, Ransone often spoke publicly about his past struggles with addiction to painkillers and heroin. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 2 July 2026 Many people associate alcohol risk primarily with addiction or legal complications such as driving while intoxicated. — Emma Fenske, The Conversation, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for addiction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for addiction
dependence
Noun
  • Its language about seeking opportunity rather than security, taking calculated risks, building, falling, succeeding, and refusing to trade dignity for dependence captured, almost perfectly, how my father thought about America.
    — Phil Kafarakis, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
  • The Eola celebration was capped by a reenactment of the signing of the Declaration of In dependence.
    — Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 July 2026
Definition of dependence

Browse Nearby Words

addicting
addiction
addictions
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Cite this Entry

“Addiction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/addiction. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on addiction

Nglish: Translation of addiction for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about addiction

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