Word of the Day, July 17: ‘Bibulous’

Word of the Day: BIBULOUS
Pronunciation: UK/ˈbɪb.jə.ləs/ or US/ˈbɪb.jə.ləs/

Meaning:

Bibulous means excessively fond of or addicted to drinking alcohol.

Examples for daily usage:

• His bibulous lifestyle eventually began to affect his health and career.
• The novel's bibulous detective was rarely seen without a glass of whiskey.

Origin and history:

It traces back to the 1670s from the Latin word bibulus (meaning "drinking readily"), which comes from the root verb bibere (meaning "to drink").

Cultural significance and modern usage

cultures around the world have had "bibulous" traditions. For example, ancient Greeks and Romans held large festivals honouring gods of wine, like Dionysus and Bacchus, where heavy drinking was seen as a way to connect with the divine.

Throughout history, drinking together has been a way for people to build trust, make business deals, and celebrate important events. Bars, taverns, and pubs have served as central gathering places in many communities.

Interesting facts:

• In chemistry and biology, "bibulous paper" refers to highly absorbent paper, similar to blotting paper, used to soak up liquids.
• Victorian writers often used bibulous to poke gentle fun at politicians, aristocrats, and fictional characters known for their drinking habits.

Examples from literature:

1. The last drop may now be removed by a little bibulous paper.- The History and Practice of the Art of Photography by Henry Hunt Snelling
2. Large numbers should not be thrown into a killing bottle together, and plenty of bibulous paper should be kept in the bottle to prevent moisture from accumulating and wetting and ruining the specimens.- Directions for Collecting and Preserving Insects by Charles V.
3. In the biscuit or bisque form pottery is bibulous, the prepared glaze sinks into its pores and when burned forms a vitreous coating.- Inventions in the century by William H.
4. Indeed, there are present-day students of George Sand's life who can find a host of excuses for his bibulous failings.- Superwomen by Albert Payson Terhune

Synonyms:

• Boozy
• Drunken
• Sottish

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