What does teetotalling mean?
Teetotalling refers to the practice of abstaining completely from alcohol. A person who teetotals is someone who has made a conscious decision to avoid drinking altogether, often due to health concerns, personal values, or past experiences with addiction. This lifestyle choice is also known as teetotalism. While some people may teetotal for their entire lives, others may choose to do so after a period of heavy drinking or as a response to health issues. The term teetotalling is commonly used in both British and US English, and it has become increasingly popular in recent years as people become more health-conscious and aware of the risks associated with excessive drinking.
verbThe act of abstaining completely from alcohol.
- The practice of abstaining from alcohol
- A person who abstains from alcohol
"After a few years of heavy drinking, she decided to start teetotalling."
"She has been teetotalling for five years now."
"The teetotalling community in town organized a charity event."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of teetotalling
The term teetotalling originated from the phrase 'T, T, or Total Abstinence' which was used in the 1830s by a group of British activists who advocated for complete abstinence from alcohol. The term teetotaler was later shortened to teetotal and has since been used to describe individuals who abstain from drinking altogether.
How teetotalling is actually used
The term is often used to describe a person who has completely given up drinking, often for health, moral, or personal reasons.