withdrawal

Definition of withdrawal

withdrawal (with-DRAWL): A term used to describe the physical and mental symptoms that a person has when they suddenly stop or cut back the use of an addictive substance, such as opiates and opioids, nicotine products, or alcohol. The withdrawal symptoms that a person has depend on many factors, such as the substance that was used, how often it was used, and the length of time it was used.

Source: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms