My father, two Uncles and a cousin all died as a direct or indirect result of their abuse of alcohol. My brother can no longer drink because if he does it will kill him.
I'm an alcoholic. It's a label I self apply because it helps keep me honest about my abuse of alcohol. If I don't remain sober I know it will eventually kill me. I eventually want to call my self a recovered alcoholic (meaning I lead a meaningful and happy life).
As others have said though if your uncomfortable with the word then don't apply it to yourself. The ultimate goal is to lead a good life free from alcohol.