quaff
verb

- to drink something quickly or in large amounts

- to drink (a usually alcoholic beverage) heartily or copiously

The Cambridge Dictionary, Merriam-Webster

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WORD ORIGIN

"Quaff" is an interesting word with somewhat mysterious origins. It first appeared in English in the mid-16th century (around 1550-1560), meaning "to drink deeply or heartily in large draughts."

Its exact origin is uncertain, but there are several theories:

1. It may be imitative in origin, representing the sound made when drinking deeply or quickly.

2. Some linguists suggest it might be related to the obsolete Scottish word quaich or quaigh (a type of shallow drinking cup with two handles).

3. Others propose a connection to Low German kuffen (to drink).

4. Another theory connects it to Middle English quassen (to crush, to drink copiously).

“Quaff” was popularized in Elizabethan writing and has always carried a rich, physical, and somewhat jovial connotation—not just drinking, but enjoying the act of drinking with gusto. Today, it’s often used a bit humorously or poetically.

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QUAFF CAREFULLY!

Here's a list of alcohols considered healthier when consumed in moderation, based on reputable sources including medical studies, nutrition research, and coverage by outlets like Business Insider and Healthline:

1.  Tequila

     Made from the blue agave plant, tequila contains agavins, a type of non-digestible sugar (a form of dietary fiber) that may support gut health and not spike blood sugar levels. Some animal studies suggest agavins may help with weight management and cholesterol reduction. Important note: These benefits are linked to pure 100% agave tequila—not to cheap mixed varieties ("mixtos") that contain added sugars.

2.  Red Wine

     Contains resveratrol, polyphenols, and quercetin, antioxidants that have been associated with: Reduced risk of heart disease, Lower LDL cholesterol, Protection against insulin resistance. Caveat: Benefits are seen with small quantities (1 glass/day for women, 1–2 for men). Too much cancels out the positives.

3.  Whiskey

     Whiskey contains antioxidants, including ellagic acid, which may help neutralize harmful free radicals. Some evidence supports its potential role in reducing the risk of certain cancers and neurodegenerative diseases. Compared to red wine: Similar antioxidant levels per serving, though whiskey lacks the polyphenols from grapes.

4.  Vodka

     Often seen as the "cleanest" spirit due to its low sugar content and neutral ingredients. Potential benefits: May improve blood circulation. Fewer congeners (impurities from fermentation), leading to milder hangovers when consumed responsibly. Good base for low-calorie cocktails when mixed with soda water and citrus. Tip: Choose vodka distilled from potatoes or grains and without added flavors or sugars.

5.  Gin

     Made from juniper berries, which contain flavonoids and anti-inflammatory compounds. Other potential benefits: May support digestion and bloating relief. Can be lower in calories than sugary cocktails. Fun fact: Traditionally used as a medicinal spirit in herbal remedies.

6.  Dry Champagne (or Brut Champagne)
     Dry champagnes are low in sugar, with about 65 calories per glass, making them a lighter option. Contains polyphenols similar to wine (since it's made from grapes), which may help with blood pressure and heart health. Brut nature or extra brut have even less sugar than standard brut.




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102 SYNONYMS

a boozy session, babysit a drink, belt back, belt down, bib, binge, binge-drink, blow the froth off, bolt down, booze, booze up, bottoms up, break the seal, chug, chug-a-lug, clean the glass, clink and sink, consume, crack a cold one, crack open, crush, down, down in one, down the hatch, drain, drink, drink deep, drink deeply, drink down, drink hard, drink like a fish, drink up, drown, empty, empty glass, feast on, gag, gargle, gargle down, glug, glug down, gollop, gulp, gulp down, guzzle, hammer, have, hit the bottle, imbibe, inhale, knock back, lap, lap up, lift a glass, lift the elbow, line 'em up, liquor up, neck, nip, polish off, pound, pound drinks, pull one, put away, put down, QUAFF, quench thirst, raise a glass, raise the elbow, rinse the tonsils, round of drinks, savage a pint, scull, shoot, sink, sip, sip (heavily), sip and slam, sip hard, slam, slosh, slug, slurp, soak up, sup, swallow, swig, swill, tank, take a pull, take it to the head, throw back, throw one down, tip back, tip one back, toast, toss back, toss down, wet the whistle, whet the whistle, zoot a drink

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SMUGGLE OWAD into an English conversation, say something like:

"Jim looks like he may have QUAFFED a few too many last night."

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