quaff

/kwɒf/

Etymology

Uncertain. Suggestions include connection with Old Irish cuäch (“cup, goblet, bowl; cauldron, large vessel; bowl, cup”) (whence Scots quaich, queff). The noun is derived from the verb.

Why this word is great

QUAFF — [Verb] To drink or imbibe with vigor or relish, especially in large draughts. Of uncertain origin; possibly connected to Old Irish cuách ("cup, goblet, bowl"). Unlike "sip" (which savors delicately) or "imbibe" (which merely denotes the act of drinking), "quaff" is a verb of abandon—a declaration of thirst met with gusto. It is the frothy ale sloshing over the rim of a tankard, the sun-warmed traveler tilting his head back to drain a waterskin, or the reveler at dawn finishing the last dregs of wine with a satisfied gasp. To quaff is to drink like a mortal who has briefly forgotten the weight of time.

noun

  1. The act of quaffing; a deep draught.

verb

  1. To drink or imbibe with vigour or relish; to drink copiously; to swallow in large draughts.“I can't believe you quaffed four pints of beer and could still drive!”