ENGLISH
REFERENCE

absinthism

n. uncountable
C2 Proficiency ab·sinthism
Definition

n. the habit of drinking a lot of absinthe, a strong green alcoholic drink. It was very common in the past, especially among artists and writers.

n. the habitual consumption of absinthe, particularly in large quantities. Historically associated with the bohemian lifestyle of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.


SIMPLE

The poet was known for his absinthism and wild behavior.

CONTEXTUAL

During the Belle Époque, absinthism was a common theme in the literature and paintings of the era.

COMPLEX

While modern research has largely debunked the myth of absinthe's hallucinogenic properties, the historical stigma of absinthism remains a powerful symbol of artistic decadence.

Word family

Last updated June 22, 2026