What does tippling mean?
Tippling means drinking alcoholic liquor in small quantities, often repeatedly over a period of time. The word is chiefly a present participle or gerund of tipple, and it can also be used as a noun for the habit or activity itself. It appears in both British and American English, although it has an old-fashioned, slightly literary quality and may sound more suggestive when it describes a continuing practice rather than a single drink. Context determines whether the connotation is neutral or disapproving: “tippling at the inn” can be picturesque, while “his constant tippling” often suggests problematic drinking. Tippling should not be confused with tipping, which means leaning or turning something or giving someone money for service. The word is useful when precision matters because it identifies drinking in repeated or comparatively modest amounts rather than describing a single large serving. It belongs to the vocabulary of literature, historical writing, and descriptions of social habits, where its slightly old-fashioned tone adds character.
To drink alcoholic liquor, especially in small or repeated quantities.
"The sailors spent the evening tippling in the tavern."
Used as the present participle of tipple.
The habit or activity of drinking alcohol, especially repeatedly or in small amounts.
"The novel portrays his tippling as both a pleasure and a source of ruin."
The noun is normally used as an uncountable gerund; the plural form is uncommon.
"The chronicler's accounts describe the tipplings of the village's taverns."
Tippling may sound like a gentle gesture, but the word can describe a steady round of drinks.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How tippling is actually used
Tippling occurs in both British and American English. It has an old-fashioned or slightly literary quality and may sound neutral in a historical or social setting, but it often carries a disapproving connotation when it describes habitual or excessive drinking.
Easily confused with tippling
Tipping means giving someone a gratuity or causing something to lean or overturn, whereas tippling means drinking alcohol, usually in small or repeated amounts.