# junkies

/ˈdʒəŋkiz/ (US) · /dʒˈʌŋkiz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/junkies
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

people who have a very strong habit or interest that they cannot stop. While it often refers to drug users, it is also used for people who love things like news, sports, or movies.

For teachers: individuals with an overwhelming physical or psychological dependence on a substance or a compulsive interest in a specific activity. Often used informally to describe enthusiasts of a particular hobby or medium.

## Examples

- The gym is always full of fitness junkies in the morning.
- Political junkies often stay up all night watching election results come in from across the country.
- The rise of 24-hour news cycles has created a generation of information junkies who feel a constant need to check their devices for updates.

## Usage notes

- Plural form of 'junkie'. While the term is common in informal speech, it can be considered insensitive when referring to people with serious medical addictions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.