Alcoholic drink, especially when consumed in large quantities.
Possibly from Middle Dutch busen meaning 'to drink heavily' or from medieval Latin busa meaning 'drink'. The term emerged in English slang in the 14th century, originally spelled 'bouse', and has maintained its informal, somewhat disreputable connotations throughout its history.
The word 'booze' carries a distinctly different connotation than 'alcohol' or 'spirits' - it implies excessive or casual consumption rather than refined appreciation. Interestingly, the term has remained remarkably stable in its spelling and meaning for over 600 years, showing how some slang words achieve linguistic permanence.
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