Quaff Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🍺
Add to dictionary

quaff

[kwɒf ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

drinking

To drink heartily or in large quantities; to gulp.

Synonyms

chug, gulp, imbibe, swig.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
quaff

Typically used in a literary or formal context to describe drinking something heartily, often alcohol.

  • He quaffed the ale with great satisfaction.
  • After a long day, they quaffed their drinks in celebration.
gulp

Describes drinking quickly and in large mouthfuls, typically when very thirsty or in a hurry.

  • She gulped down the cold lemonade after her run.
  • He had to gulp his coffee before the meeting started.
swig

An informal term usually referring to drinking in large mouthfuls, often directly from the container.

  • He took a big swig of water from his bottle.
  • She swigged the juice straight from the carton.
chug

Used informally and often to describe drinking something quickly and energetically, sometimes as part of a competition.

  • He chugged the entire bottle of water in one go.
  • They were chugging beers at the party.
imbibe

A formal and somewhat old-fashioned term, often used in a literary context to refer to drinking, usually alcohol.

  • She likes to imbibe a glass of wine in the evening.
  • They gathered to imbibe the local beer and chat.

Examples of usage

  • He quaffed his beer in one gulp.
  • She quaffed the refreshing lemonade on a hot summer day.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'quaff'

The word 'quaff' originated from Middle English 'quassen', which meant 'to shake, to splash about, to quash'. It evolved to 'quaffen' in Old English, and eventually became 'quaff' in Modern English. The term has been used since the 14th century to describe the act of drinking heartily or in large quantities.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,729 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.