swizzle

Definition

Any of various kinds of alcoholic drink.

Etymology

Unknown etymology, 1813. Original sense “alcoholic drink”, possibly a variant of switchel (“a drink of molasses and water, often mixed with rum”), attested 1790, itself of uncertain origin. Possibly influenced by swirl or fizz. In verb sense “to stir”, from swizzle stick (“stick for stirring alcoholic drinks”), itself attested 1859.

Example Sentences

• "“We brought tiki drinks.” “Oh.” “Tracy, turn loose that rum swizzle.” “Oh, Bill's back, and he's brought tiki drinks! You got a friend in me, Bill.”"
• "“Coo! What a swizzle!” Relief at their safe deliverance was mingled with disappointment that the spider was not a rare specimen after all."

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