Hooch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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hooch
[huːtʃ ]
Definition
alcoholic beverage
Hooch is a slang term for alcoholic drinks, particularly those that are homemade or produced illicitly. It often refers to low-quality liquor that can be produced by fermentation processes.
Synonyms
brew, liquor, moonshine, spirits.
Examples of usage
- After a long week, we decided to relax with some homemade hooch.
- During the prohibition era, many folks resorted to making their own hooch.
- The party was filled with laughter and plenty of hooch flowing.
- He warned us not to drink too much of that hooch, as it's quite strong.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Hooch has appeared in various films and television shows, often associated with parties, rebellion, and clandestine gatherings.
- The term was popularized in the 1989 buddy cop film 'Turner & Hooch', where the main character is followed by a lovable dog named Hooch, creating a fun association.
- In many music genres, including country and blues, hooch often features in lyrics that celebrate nightlife or have a rebellious tone.
Historical Context
- During World War II, soldiers were known to bring personal distillation kits to create their own hooch as a morale booster.
- The era of Prohibition in the U.S. (1920-1933) saw a dramatic increase in the production and consumption of homemade alcoholic beverages, leading to the slang term's rise in popularity.
- In the Great Depression, people's need for inexpensive ways to enjoy drinks led to the experimentation and proliferation of homemade brews, further entwining 'hooch' with American culture.
Social Impact
- Hooch production during the Prohibition era was a symbol of resistance against government regulations on personal freedoms.
- There are many social rituals built around sharing hooch, often connected to community gatherings, celebrations, and storytelling.
- Studies show that while 'hooch' often represents camaraderie, it can also lead to discussions about responsible drinking and the impact of alcohol on health and society.
Culinary Uses
- Homemade alcoholic beverages, including hooch, can vary widely in flavor profiles depending on the ingredients used, including fruits, grains, and herbs.
- Some cultures have traditional hooch recipes, incorporating local fruits or spices, showcasing the diversity of fermentation practices.
- Microbreweries and craft distilleries today celebrate these homemade traditions, often reviving old recipes into popular new drinks.
Origin of 'hooch'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'hooch' is believed to have originated from 'hoochinoo', a term used by the indigenous peoples of Alaska to describe their homemade alcoholic beverage.
- It became popular in the early 20th century during Prohibition in the United States, when people began to create their own illicit drinks.
- In the 1920s, 'hooch' was often used by bootleggers to refer to the illegal alcohol they sold.
The term 'hooch' likely originates from the word 'hoochinoo', which is derived from the Hoochinoo people of Alaska, known for their traditional method of making alcohol. The term began to gain traction in the United States during the early 20th century, particularly during Prohibition in the 1920s, when the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were illegal. During this time, people turned to making their own alcohol, leading to the popularization of the word 'hooch' as a slang for homemade or bootlegged alcohol. Over time, 'hooch' has maintained its association with low-quality or illicit liquor and is still used colloquially today.