drunkard
UK: ˈdrʌŋkəd | US: ˈdrʌŋkərd
n. a person who is habitually drunk or frequently intoxicated
The word "drunkard" combines "drunk," the past participle of "drink," with the suffix "-ard," which originates from Old French and Germanic languages. The suffix "-ard" often carries a pejorative or exaggerated connotation, implying a persistent or excessive tendency (e.g., "coward," "braggart"). Thus, "drunkard" literally means "one who is excessively drunk," reflecting its use to describe habitual drunkenness. The term emerged in Middle English (14th century) and retains its negative association with chronic alcohol abuse.
The town's drunkard was often seen stumbling out of the tavern at midnight.
His reputation as a drunkard made it difficult for him to find steady work.
She vowed never to marry a drunkard after witnessing her father's struggles.
The novel's antagonist is a cruel drunkard who neglects his family.
Local charities tried to help the drunkard rehabilitate, but he relapsed repeatedly.