hangover

noun

hang·​over ˈhaŋ-ˌō-vər How to pronounce hangover (audio)
1
: something (such as a surviving custom) that remains from what is past
2
a
: disagreeable physical effects following heavy consumption of alcohol or the use of drugs
b
: a letdown following great excitement or excess

Did you know?

The effects of hangovers have been hanging around for ages. The word itself, however, has only been fermenting since the late 19th century. Originally, hangover described someone or something that remained or simply survived, but it was later distilled into common use as a word for the effects of overconsumption of alcohol or drugs. These days, hangover can also suggest an emotional letdown or an undesirable prolongation of notes or sounds from a loudspeaker.

Examples of hangover in a Sentence

She woke up with a hangover.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Burke says part of the late-stage drag is that pre-generative AI boom companies have struggled to find their way, especially as investors have struggled with their own 2021 hangovers. Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 3 Dec. 2024 Quarterback Matthew Stafford was examined for a concussion and suffered a season-ending spinal bruise in a defeat that epitomized the Rams’ historic hangover that followed their victory in Super Bowl LVI. Gary Klein, Los Angeles Times, 30 Nov. 2024 Some people say that that consuming another drink will cure your hangover. Andee Tagle, NPR, 26 Nov. 2024 The organization added that many outbreaks and poisonings go undiagnosed since symptoms mirror those that are common with food poisoning and hangovers, such as vomiting and drowsiness. Monica Pitrelli, CNBC, 25 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for hangover 

Word History

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hangover was in 1894

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Dictionary Entries Near hangover

Cite this Entry

“Hangover.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hangover. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

hangover

noun
hang·​over ˈhaŋ-ˌō-vər How to pronounce hangover (audio)
1
: something (as a surviving custom) that remains from what is past
2
: a sick uncomfortable state that comes from drinking too many drinks of alcoholic beverage

Medical Definition

hangover

noun
hang·​over -ˌō-vər How to pronounce hangover (audio)
: disagreeable physical effects (as headache or nausea) following heavy consumption of alcohol or the use of drugs
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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