Teetotal

Adjective

Definition: Abstaining completely from alcoholic drink.

Synonyms: Abstinent, Non-drinking, Dry

Antonyms: Drinking, Alcoholic, Intoxicated

Examples:

She has been teetotal for ten years.
He decided to become teetotal after witnessing the negative effects of alcohol on his family members.

Mnemonics:

'Teetotal' sounds similar to 'total', representing complete abstinence.

Etymology:

Origin:

The term 'teetotal' originated in the early 19th century and is believed to have been formed from the initial letters of the phrase "T Total," which stands for "total abstinence" from alcohol.

Historical Usage:

The word gained popularity through the temperance movement, a social movement against the consumption of alcoholic beverages that was particularly prominent in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Teetotaler"

Explanation:

A person who abstains completely from consuming alcoholic drinks.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'teetotal' with 'sober'.

Explanation:

While 'teetotal' refers specifically to abstaining from alcohol, 'sober' refers to the absence of intoxication and can be used in a broader context.