What does the term "hangover" most accurately refer to?

The term "hangover" most accurately refers to the adverse physical effects following excessive alcohol consumption. A hangover is characterized by a range of unpleasant symptoms that can include headache, nausea, dehydration, fatigue, and sensitivity to light and sound, among others. These symptoms arise as the body processes and reacts to the alcohol consumed, often due to dehydration, the toxic effects of alcohol metabolites, and disruptions in sleep patterns.

While feeling tired after a long night can be a part of the hangover experience, it does not encompass the full range of symptoms experienced. The pleasant effects of drinking alcohol, such as euphoria or relaxation, are typically part of the intoxication phase and negate the resulting negative aftermath. Lastly, a type of cocktail is unrelated to the concept of a hangover, which specifically deals with the consequences of excessive drinking rather than the drinks themselves.