junkie
UK: ˈdʒʌŋki | US: ˈdʒʌŋki
n. 1. A person addicted to drugs, especially heroin.
n. 2. (informal) An enthusiast or devotee of a particular activity or thing (e.g., "a fitness junkie").
The word "junkie" originated in early 20th-century American slang. "Junk" was a colloquial term for narcotics, particularly heroin, possibly derived from the idea of discarded or worthless items (like "junk"). The suffix "-ie" (or "-y") is a common English diminutive or affectionate suffix used to form nouns denoting people associated with something (e.g., "foodie," "groupie"). Over time, "junkie" expanded beyond drug addiction to describe anyone intensely devoted to a hobby or activity.
The documentary highlighted the struggles of a former junkie rebuilding his life.
She’s a coffee junkie and can’t start her day without three cups.
The alley was known as a gathering spot for local junkies.
He turned into a tech junkie after getting his first smartphone.
The rehab center helps junkies overcome their addictions.