This is a tough one. I guess there are technical definitions for alcoholism as far as dependency or how many drinks a person has at one time or over the course of a week. I guess I would classify an alcoholic as someone who puts the need to have a drink ahead of day to day activities such as work, family, etc.....I think by most standards I would be considered a functional alcoholic. I don't drink Monday - Wednesday. I have a good job, go to all my kids events, maintain the house, but I get after it pretty good Thursday - Sunday quantity wise. I'm pretty much strictly a beer guy and it's not like I fiend for alcohol of any kind. There's been a bottle of Belvedere in the house for going on 3 years. I have an addictive personality in pretty much all things. It's balls to the wall or nothing. I'm not good at moderation.