quaff

[ kwof, kwaf, kwawf ]

verb (used without object)

1. to drink a beverage, especially an intoxicating one, copiously and with hearty enjoyment.

   Synonyms: guzzle, swig, gulp, swallow

verb (used with object)

1. to drink (a beverage) copiously and heartily:

   We spent the whole evening quaffing ale.

noun

1. an act or instance of quaffing.
2. a beverage quaffed.

quaff

/ kwɑːf; kwɒf /

verb

1. to drink heartily or in one draught

Derived Forms

• ˈquaffer, noun
• ˈquaffable, adjective

Other Words From

• quaffer noun
• outquaff verb (used with object)
• un·quaffed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of quaff¹

First recorded in 1515–25; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of quaff¹

C16: perhaps of imitative origin; compare Middle Low German quassen to eat or drink excessively

Example Sentences

The comment didn’t sit well back in Cleveland, where civic pride runs deeper than the Cuyahoga River and passionate fans aren’t averse to quaffing a brew or two while watching their pro sports teams.

From Seattle Times

It’s the outline of Mr. Trump’s head – complete with quaff, bushy eyebrows and long neck.

From Salon

As diners quaffed fine wine and ate expensive dishes, they could glance at the painting by Rex Whistler depicting a hunting party riding through a fantastical landscape.

From New York Times

I skipped superficial New Year fests and literary galas filled with semi-strangers, lest I be tempted by quaffs, canapés or cannabis.

From Salon

Patent absurdity, of course, as much then as now — no matter how many 3D-printed organs we churn out, how long we extend our telomeres, nor how many quaffs of plasma we down.

From Salon

Related Words

• gulp
• guzzle
• imbibe
• sip
• swig
• swill