pony

Definition

A small horse; specifically, any of several small breeds of horse under 14.2 hands at the withers.

Etymology

1659 from Scots powny, apparently from Middle French poulenet (“little foal”), ultimately from Late Latin pullanus (“young of an animal”), from pullus (cognate to English foal). Sense “small serving of alcohol” from 19th century, both for small sizes generally and for a quarter pint specifically, from the small size.

Example Sentences

• "1879, “Some Queer Interviews: Interview with a Pony of Beer”, Puck, Vol. 5–6, p. 435"
• "‘I’m on the inside track,’ said a pony of beer as it went galloping down a man’s throat."
• "Demon popped into his mouth a last morsel of black bread with elastic samlet, gulped down a last pony of vodka and took his place at the table with Marina facing him across its oblong length."