noun

intoxication

in-tahk-sih-KAY-shuhn/ɪnˌtɑːksɪˈkeɪʃn/

Impaired or altered awareness caused by alcohol or drugs.

His slumped posture and clumsy spill show clear signs of intoxication.

A visibly alcohol-impaired adult slumps on a bar stool, with unfocused half-closed eyes and a slack expression, clumsily tipping a beer glass and spilling its contents beside two empty beer glasses.

Etymology

inLatinin, into

+toxicLatinpoison

+ationLatinaction or state

The poison root reflects the word's earlier meaning, “poisoning.” Its later use for drunkenness connects the modern alcohol-or-drug sense with the effects of a substance on the body.

In context

Nate The Lawyer135:45

And you drank alcohol, but you didn't know that. You would have a defense because you didn't choose the alcohol. So, at that point, involuntary intoxication because you didn't make the decision.

BREAKING: Mistrial Declared in Lindsay Clancy Trial | Last Second Appeal

More examples

Alcohol intoxication can make even a short drive dangerous.
The medication can cause intoxication if you take too much.
She needs medical attention for severe intoxication.

Forms

intoxication

intoxicate verb — To impair someone through alcohol or drugs.

intoxicated adjective — Having awareness impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Similar words

drunkenness: Specifically means impairment from alcohol rather than other drugs.
inebriation: A formal term usually referring specifically to alcohol impairment.