birle

[ burl; Scots birl ]

verb (used with object)

, birled, birl·ing.

1. to pour (a drink) or pour a drink for.

verb (used without object)

, birled, birl·ing.

1. to drink deeply; carouse.

Word History and Origins

Origin of birle¹

before 1000; Middle English birlen, Old English byrelian, derivative of byrele butler; akin to bear ¹

Example Sentences

She birled him with the ale and wine, As they sat down to sup:10 A living man he laid him down, But I wot he ne'er rose up.

From Project Gutenberg

She's brought them down to yon cellar, 30 She brought them fifty steps and three; She birled wi' them the beer and wine, Till they were as drunk as drunk could be.

From Project Gutenberg

John birled a bright sovereign on the counter, one of twenty old Gourlay had battered his brains to get together for the boy's expenses.

From Project Gutenberg

Boucher and Jamieson have collected much regarding the obsolete use of the verb to birle, to carouse, to pour out liquor.

From Project Gutenberg

O she has birled these merry young men Wi’ strong beer and wi’ wine, Until she made them a’ as drunk As any wall-wood swine.

From Project Gutenberg