Inebriated

Inebriated is the state of having consumed alcohol to an extent that impairs physical and cognitive function. In everyday usage, the term denotes mild to moderate intoxication or, less frequently, severe intoxication depending on context. The degree of impairment varies with alcohol concentration in the blood, rate of consumption, body weight, tolerance, and other factors.

The word derives from Latin inebriatus ("made drunk"), from in- "in" + ebrius "drunk," via the verb inebriāre "to intoxicate." The form inebriated has been in English since the late medieval period.

Alcohol's effects begin with central nervous system depression. Common signs of being inebriated include slowed reaction time, loss of coordination, impaired judgment, and slurred speech. At higher levels, there may be drowsiness, confusion, vomiting, and risk of coma or death from respiratory depression. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is used to quantify impairment; definitions of intoxication vary by jurisdiction.

In many legal contexts, "inebriated" is used to describe driving or operating machinery while intoxicated. Laws set BAC limits (for example, 0.08% in many places for drivers; some jurisdictions set zero tolerance for professional drivers or all drivers). Ethically, it's advised not to drive if inebriated, and to seek medical help if alcohol overdose or poisoning is suspected.