addicts

word · lemma: addict

/ˈæˌdɪkts/, /əˈdɪkts/
/ˈæˌdɪkts/, /əˈdɪkts/

Definition

People who are physically or psychologically dependent on a substance or activity. Can also be used informally for someone extremely devoted to something.

Usage & Nuances

The noun 'addict' stresses the first syllable (AD-dict), while the verb 'addict' stresses the second (a-DICT). Common collocations: drug addicts, recovering addicts. Informal: coffee addict, news addict. The term can be stigmatizing in medical contexts — 'person with addiction' is preferred.

Example Sentences

Some recovering addicts attend meetings every week.

basic

We're all screen addicts at this point — nobody can put their phone down.

natural

The clinic treats drug addicts from all backgrounds.

basic

Many addicts struggle to find support after leaving rehab.

basic

The documentary follows former addicts rebuilding their lives after prison.

natural

I swear my coworkers are coffee addicts — they go through three pots before noon.

natural