persistent, compulsive dependence on a behavior or substance.
1. 2. : compulsive need for and use of a habit-forming substance (as heroin, nicotine, or alcohol) characterized by tolerance and by well-defined physiological symptoms upon withdrawal; broadly: persistent compulsive use of a substance known by the user to be harmful. See addiction defined for English-language learners. The term addiction describes a compulsive act which causes harm to the person and those around them and over which the person no longer has control. An example of this is a person who constantly drinks to excess in spite of the fact that it is hurting his family and career. Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It is considered a brain disease because drugs change the brain; they change its structure and how it works. Definition. Addiction is a persistent, compulsive dependence on a behavior or substance. The term has been partially replaced by the word dependence for substance abuse. Addiction has been extended, however, to include mood-altering behaviors or activities. Addiction is a persistent, compulsive dependence on a behavior or substance. The term has been partially replaced by the word dependence for substance abuse. Addiction has been extended, however, to include mood-altering behaviors or activities.
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/addiction http://www.healthyplace.com/addictions/addictions-information/what-is-an-addiction-addiction-definition/ https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/media-guide/science-drug-abuse-addiction-basics http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/addiction http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/addiction
what is the definition of an addict