Quaff
Verb
Definition: To drink (a liquid) heartily or in large amounts.
Synonyms: Gulp, Swig, Imbibe
Antonyms: Sip, Abstain
Examples:
- After a long run, he quaffed a bottle of cold water.
- The partygoers quaffed champagne throughout the night.
Mnemonics:
- Think of "quaff" as a sound someone makes while drinking heartily. "Quaff, quaff!"
- Imagine watching someone enthusiastically guzzling a large beverage.
Etymology:
Origin:
Middle English 'quaffen', of North Germanic origin; related to Old Norse 'kvef' (to drink heavily or deeply).
Historical Usage:"Quaff" has been used in English dating back to the 14th century, maintaining its basic meaning of drinking heartily.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Quaff a toast"
Explanation:To raise and drink a beverage in celebration or as a tribute.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing "quaff" with "sip" or assuming it means to drink casually.
Explanation:"Quaff" specifically refers to drinking deeply or heartily, not taking small sips.