Ivresse
In short
Ivresse is the French word for intoxication or being drunk. It describes the state of being under the influence of alcohol or other substances.
In plain words
It is the feeling of losing control because you have had too much to drink. People use it to describe both the physical sensation and the mental state of being tipsy or drunk.
A simple example
A person might feel a sense of ivresse after enjoying a few glasses of champagne at a wedding. This feeling often includes lightheadedness and a happy mood.
Why it matters
Understanding the term helps in grasping French literature and social descriptions of celebration. It distinguishes between simple drinking and the actual state of being intoxicated.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse it with 'ivresse céleste', which is a poetic way to describe spiritual ecstasy rather than alcohol.