Quaffing: meaning, definitions and examples

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quaffing

 

[ ˈkwɒf.ɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

drinking heartily

To quaff means to drink something, usually an alcoholic beverage, in a hearty or exuberant manner, often in large gulps. It connotes a sense of enjoyment and indulgence in the act of drinking.

Synonyms

chug, gulp, swig.

Examples of usage

  • They spent the evening quaffing ale at the pub.
  • After the marathon, he was quaffing down water to rehydrate.
  • She quaffed her glass of wine before heading to the dance floor.

Etymology

The word 'quaff' originates from the early 16th century, derived from the dialectual word 'quafe' or 'quaff', which means to drink deeply. It is believed to stem from the German word 'quäff' which refers to drinking. The term has gone through various forms over the centuries and has been used in literature and poetry to evoke a sense of revelry and enjoyment, often associated with celebrations or festive occasions. Its usage has been popularized in various cultures, emphasizing the joy of drinking and camaraderie among people. Ultimately, 'quaffing' carries connotations of spirited drinking and is often linked to social and communal experiences.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,574, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.