Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

dry-drunk

noun

/ˈdraɪˌdrʌŋk/

Definition

A term used to describe a person who is abstaining from alcohol but still exhibits the behaviors and attitudes associated with being drunk.

Examples

After several months of sobriety, Jane realized she was still a dry-drunk, struggling with her emotions.
Many in recovery recognize that being dry-drunk can lead to relapse if underlying issues are not addressed.
He often found himself stuck in a dry-drunk state, feeling the same frustrations as when he was still drinking.

Meaning

The state of being sober in terms of alcohol consumption, yet still displaying emotional or mental traits characteristic of active alcoholism, such as mood swings, irritability, or compulsive behaviors.