sober

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Sober means being free from the influence of intoxicating substances like alcohol or drugs.

When people say they're going sober for a while, it usually means they've decided to stop drinking or using certain substances for their own health and well-being. They might be trying to quit cold turkey, which can be tough, but many find it's worth it in the end. Some people go sober during special events like weddings or holidays, just so they can enjoy themselves without having a hangover afterwards. Others choose to live sober as a lifestyle choice because they feel it helps them think more clearly and make better decisions about their lives.

How common is "sober"?

Word sober is considered uncommon in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

adjective

Not drunk; not intoxicated.
Not under the influence of any recreational drug.
Not given to excessive drinking of alcohol.
(figurative) Moderate; realistic; serious; not playful; not passionate; cool; self-controlled.
(of color) Dull; not bright or colorful.
Subdued; solemn; grave.
(Scotland) Poor; feeble.

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Real examples of "sober" in context

Mark Ruffalo Reveals Why He Isn’t in the Avengers: Doomsday Trailer Before Dunking His Head in Ice

Interview

But I'm more sober now than when I came into this place.

6:58

Tom Holland Confirms Spider-Man 4, Talks Hiding Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield Cameos and BERO

Interview

And then when I got sober and I kind of got through my first year, which was for me a massive milestone and a huge achievement, I started thinking about...

7:31

So, I got sober.

7:11