# sobriety

/səˈbɹaɪəti/ (US) · /səbɹˈaɪəti/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sobriety
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the state of not being drunk or under the influence of drugs. It can also mean being serious and sensible in your behavior.

For teachers: the state of being sober, specifically the absence of intoxication by alcohol or drugs. In a broader sense, refers to a quality of seriousness, gravity, or solemnity in manner or style.

## Examples

- He celebrated five years of continuous sobriety today.
- The doctor emphasized that maintaining long-term sobriety requires a strong support network and healthy lifestyle changes.
- The architect's design was praised for its aesthetic sobriety, eschewing modern trends in favor of clean lines and functional simplicity that commanded quiet respect.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable in both its medical and behavioral senses.

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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.