drinking
n. uncountable A2 Elementary US //ˈdɹɪŋkɪŋ// UK //dɹˈɪŋkɪŋ// drink·ing
n. the act of taking liquid into your mouth and swallowing it. It often refers specifically to the habit of consuming alcohol.
n. the act of ingesting liquids; frequently used to denote the consumption of alcoholic beverages, especially in excess.
He gave up drinking coffee late at night.
The doctor advised him that heavy drinking could lead to serious liver problems later in life.
While moderate social drinking is common in many cultures, public health initiatives often focus on the risks associated with binge consumption and long-term dependency.
Inherited from Middle English [Term?]. By surface analysis, drink + -ing.
Usage
When used without a qualifying noun like 'water' or 'juice', it typically implies the consumption of alcohol.