What does swig mean?
Swig is an informal English word with both noun and verb uses. As a noun, it means a drink or an amount of liquid taken into the mouth, often a quick or satisfying mouthful and sometimes a serving of alcohol. As a verb, to swig means to drink something quickly, typically in one or more large mouthfuls. The word has a lively, casual tone and can suggest enjoyment, thirst, or the informal habit of drinking directly from a bottle or glass. “Take a swig” and “a swig of water” are typical expressions, while uses involving beer, whisky, or other alcoholic drinks are especially common. Although “swig” is not limited to alcoholic beverages, its frequent association with alcohol gives it a slightly more expressive and occasionally celebratory character. It is a useful word when a speaker wants to describe not merely drinking, but drinking with speed, gusto, or a degree of abandon.
An informal term for a drink, especially an alcoholic drink, or an amount of liquid taken into the mouth.
"She finished the bottle with one last swig."
Often suggests a quick or substantial mouthful; it can refer to non-alcoholic drinks as well.
To drink something quickly, often in one or several large mouthfuls.
"They swigged the lemonade from their plastic cups."
Informal and typically transitive, although it can also be used intransitively.
The plural is swigs, as in “They took several swigs of water.”
"The runners took swigs of water at every stop."
A swig captures the satisfying moment when a thirsty person takes a quick, substantial drink — often with a little swagger.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does swig come from?
The exact origin of swig is uncertain. The noun meaning a drink and the verb meaning to drink greedily or quickly are recorded from the early eighteenth century, but their relationship is difficult to establish and they may have developed from a shared earlier source. The word has no securely identifiable set of common cognates that can be listed here without speculation.
Related word forms
How swig is actually used
The noun and verb are informal and especially suggest drinking quickly or taking a noticeable mouthful. The word often implies alcohol, but it can also be used naturally for water, juice, or another non-alcoholic drink.
Easily confused with swig
A swig is a drink or the act of drinking quickly, whereas a swing is a seat suspended by ropes or chains, or a sweeping movement.