wet one's whistle

Idioms and Phrases

Have a drink, as in I'm just going to wet my whistle before I go out on the tennis court . This expression uses whistle in the sense of “mouth” and may allude to the fact that it is very hard to whistle with dry lips. [Late 1300s]

Example Sentences

For "personals" the old Pacific House was just the place,— Pap Abell knew the pedigrees of all the human race; And when he'd gin up all he had, he'd drop a subtle wink, And lead the way where one might wet one's whistle with a drink.

From Project Gutenberg

A superstitious practice among old seamen, who are equally scrupulous to avoid whistling during a heavy gale.—To wet one's whistle.

From Project Gutenberg

This was a serious matter, for in a region where coffee and tea are almost unknown luxuries, and the evening meal consists of such thirst-provoking articles as broiled venison, corn-dodgers, and sorghum, one is apt to feel the need of some liquid milder than "apple-jack," and more toothsome than water, wherewith to wet one's whistle.

From Project Gutenberg

To wet one's whistle; to drink.

From Project Gutenberg