What does teetotaller mean?
A teetotaller is a person who completely abstains from consuming alcoholic beverages. This term is often used to describe individuals who have chosen not to drink for personal, health, or moral reasons. Teetotallers may be motivated by a desire to avoid the negative health effects of alcohol, to maintain a clear mind, or to adhere to certain cultural or religious principles. The term has been in use since the 19th century and is commonly used in both British and US English. Being a teetotaller can sometimes be seen as unusual or noteworthy, especially in social situations where drinking is common. However, many people choose to abstain from alcohol for various reasons, and the term teetotaller simply acknowledges this choice without judgment.
nounA person who abstains completely from alcoholic beverages.
- A person who practices total abstinence from alcoholic beverages.
- A person who advocates for total abstinence from alcoholic beverages.
"As a lifelong teetotaller, she found it difficult to understand why her friends enjoyed drinking so much."
"The teetotaller was surprised to find that many of his friends were also non-drinkers."
"She became a teetotaller after witnessing the negative effects of alcohol on her family."
The plural form teetotallers is used to refer to multiple individuals who abstain from alcoholic beverages.
"The group of teetotallers organized a non-alcoholic beverage tasting event."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of teetotaller
The term teetotaller originated in the 19th century, derived from the phrase 'T.T.' which was used as an abbreviation for 'total abstinence' on banners and signs used by temperance movement activists. The term gained popularity and eventually became a standard term to describe individuals who practiced total abstinence from alcoholic beverages. The word teetotaller is closely related to the term teetotalist, which refers to a person who advocates for total abstinence from alcohol.
How teetotaller is actually used
The term teetotaller is often used interchangeably with teetotalist, although some people make a distinction between the two, with teetotaller referring specifically to someone who abstains from all alcoholic beverages, and teetotalist referring to someone who advocates for total abstinence.