
ADDICTION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
1 : a compulsive, chronic, physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity having harmful physical, psychological, or social effects and typically …
Addiction: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment
Addiction is a chronic condition that involves compulsive seeking and taking of a substance or performing an activity despite negative or harmful consequences.
Drug Misuse and Addiction | National Institute on Drug Abuse
Jul 6, 2020 · Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences. † It is considered a brain disorder, …
Addiction - Wikipedia
Addiction is a neuropsychological disorder characterized by a persistent and intense urge to use a drug or engage in a behavior that produces natural reward, despite substantial harm and other …
Addiction | Psychology Today
A person with an addiction uses a substance, or engages in a behavior, for which the rewarding effects provide a compelling incentive to repeat the activity, despite detrimental consequences....
Addiction - Harvard Health
In its most basic definition, addiction is a physical dependence on a substance or activity. The dependence leads to unpleasant symptoms, called withdrawal symptoms, that appear when a …
What is the Definition of Addiction
Sep 15, 2019 · What is the definition of addiction? Addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an …
Addiction | Description, Characteristics, & Treatment | Britannica
Dec 16, 2025 · Addiction is a physical or psychological need for a substance or behavior that is physically, psychologically, or socially harmful.
What is Addiction? | Definition, Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment
Dec 22, 2025 · Addiction is a chronic but treatable medical condition, characterized by the continued use of a substance or activity despite it causing clinically significant distress and …
ADDICTION Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com
ADDICTION definition: the state of being compulsively committed to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming, as narcotics, to such an extent …