as in dependence
a physiological need for certain drugs
an addiction to heroin
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of addiction
Studies show that higher temperatures are linked to higher rates of visits to the Emergency Department for mental health conditions and addiction.
—
Carmel Wroth,
NPR,
2 July 2026
However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.
—
Don Sweeney,
Sacbee.com,
2 July 2026
Following the show, Sweetin struggled with addiction issues before getting sober and working at a treatment facility.
—
Virginia Chamlee,
PEOPLE,
2 July 2026
Research has increasingly pointed to app designs built for engagement and addiction rather than actual matchmaking, and users are noticing.
—
Hanna Wickes,
Charlotte Observer,
2 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for addiction
Carmel Wroth,
NPR,
2 July 2026
However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.
—
Don Sweeney,
Sacbee.com,
2 July 2026
Following the show, Sweetin struggled with addiction issues before getting sober and working at a treatment facility.
—
Virginia Chamlee,
PEOPLE,
2 July 2026
Research has increasingly pointed to app designs built for engagement and addiction rather than actual matchmaking, and users are noticing.
—
Hanna Wickes,
Charlotte Observer,
2 July 2026
See All Example Sentences for addiction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for addiction
dependence
Noun
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Its language about seeking opportunity rather than security, taking calculated risks, building, falling, succeeding, and refusing to trade dignity for dependence captured, almost perfectly, how my father thought about America.
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The Eola celebration was capped by a reenactment of the signing of the Declaration of In dependence.
Cite this Entry
“Addiction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/addiction. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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