Top 41 Slang For Alcoholic Drinks – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to alcoholic drinks, there’s a whole world of slang and terminology that goes beyond the usual “beer” or “cocktail.” At Fluentslang, we’ve got you covered with a curated list of the top slang terms for alcoholic drinks that will help you navigate the bar scene like a pro. From “hooch” to “booze,” get ready to expand your vocabulary and impress your friends with your knowledge of the coolest drinking lingo. So grab a drink and join us as we dive into the fascinating world of slang for alcoholic beverages. Cheers!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Booze

This term is a general slang for any type of alcoholic drink. It can refer to beer, wine, spirits, or any other alcoholic beverage.

For example, “Let’s grab some booze and have a good time.”
A person might say, “I need a drink. Where can I find some booze around here?”
Someone might ask, “What’s your favorite type of booze?”

2. Brewski

This slang term specifically refers to beer. It is a casual and playful way to talk about enjoying a cold one.

For instance, “I’m going to crack open a brewski and relax.”
A person might say, “I love trying different craft brewskis.”
Someone might ask, “Who wants to join me for a brewski after work?”

3. Hooch

This term originated during the Prohibition era when homemade alcohol was often of low quality and potency. It now refers to any strong or cheap alcoholic drink.

For example, “Let’s sneak some hooch into the party.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe they’re charging $10 for a glass of hooch.”
Someone might ask, “Where can I find some good hooch in this town?”

4. Sauce

This term is a slang for any type of alcoholic drink, but it is often used to refer to hard liquor or strong alcoholic beverages.

For instance, “I need a shot of sauce to warm me up.”
A person might say, “I can’t handle that strong sauce.”
Someone might ask, “Do you prefer beer or sauce?”

5. Firewater

This term specifically refers to whiskey or any strong alcoholic drink. It is often used in a playful or humorous way.

For example, “Pass me the firewater and let’s get this party started.”
A person might say, “I’m in the mood for some firewater tonight.”
Someone might ask, “Have you ever tried that new brand of firewater?”

6. Juice

In slang, “juice” is often used to refer to any type of alcoholic beverage. It can be used to describe a wide range of drinks, from beer to cocktails.

For example, someone might say, “Let’s grab some juice after work.”
A person at a party might ask, “What kind of juice are you drinking?”
In a bar, a bartender might say, “What can I get you? We have a variety of juices to choose from.”

7. Tonic

In slang, “tonic” is often used to refer to a gin and tonic, a popular mixed drink made with gin and tonic water. It is a refreshing and effervescent cocktail.

For instance, someone might say, “I’ll have a tonic, please.”
At a party, a person might ask, “Do you have any tonic for the gin?”
A bartender might recommend, “If you’re looking for a classic cocktail, try a gin and tonic.”

8. Vino

In slang, “vino” is often used to refer to wine. It is a casual and playful term for the alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes.

For example, someone might say, “I love a good glass of vino.”
At a restaurant, a person might ask, “What vinos do you have on the menu?”
A wine enthusiast might say, “I enjoy exploring different types of vino from around the world.”

9. Suds

In slang, “suds” is often used to refer to beer. It is a playful and informal term for the popular alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains.

For instance, someone might say, “Let’s grab some suds and watch the game.”
At a bar, a person might ask, “What suds do you have on tap?”
A beer connoisseur might say, “I enjoy trying different types of craft suds.”

10. Moonshine

In slang, “moonshine” is often used to refer to illegally distilled alcohol, typically high-proof distilled spirits made in homemade stills. It has a strong and often harsh taste.

For example, someone might say, “He brought a jar of moonshine to the party.”
In a discussion about bootlegging, a person might say, “Moonshine played a significant role during Prohibition.”
A person sharing a story might say, “I once tried some homemade moonshine, and it was incredibly strong.”

11. Hard stuff

This term is used to refer to strong alcoholic beverages, typically those with a high alcohol content.

For instance, someone might say, “I can’t handle the hard stuff, I prefer lighter drinks.”
In a conversation about partying, someone might ask, “Are we going to have any hard stuff at the party?”
A person discussing their drinking preferences might say, “I only drink the hard stuff when I want to get really drunk.”

12. Liquid courage

This term is used to describe alcoholic drinks that are believed to give people confidence or courage to do something they might not normally do.

For example, someone might say, “I need a shot of liquid courage before I can go talk to that person.”
In a discussion about socializing, someone might mention, “I always rely on a little liquid courage to help me loosen up at parties.”
A person might say, “I don’t need liquid courage to be confident, I can socialize without alcohol.”

13. Nectar of the gods

This term is used to describe alcoholic drinks that are considered exceptionally delicious or enjoyable.

For instance, someone might say, “This cocktail is the nectar of the gods, it tastes amazing.”
In a conversation about favorite drinks, someone might mention, “My grandmother makes a homemade wine that is truly the nectar of the gods.”
A person might say, “I only drink the nectar of the gods on special occasions, it’s too expensive to have regularly.”

14. Sipper

This term is used to describe alcoholic drinks that are meant to be sipped slowly, rather than consumed quickly.

For example, someone might say, “This whiskey is a sipper, you really have to savor the flavors.”
In a discussion about drinking habits, someone might mention, “I prefer sipper drinks because they last longer and I can enjoy them more.”
A person might say, “I like to have a sipper drink while I read a book, it helps me relax and unwind.”

15. Swigs

This term is used to describe alcoholic drinks that are meant to be consumed quickly, often in one gulp.

For instance, someone might say, “Let’s take a few swigs of this vodka before we head out.”
In a conversation about partying, someone might mention, “We were taking swigs of tequila all night, it was wild.”
A person might say, “I don’t like swigs, I prefer to savor my drinks and enjoy the flavors.”

16. Tipple

This term refers to any alcoholic beverage, usually used in a casual or lighthearted manner. It can be used to describe any type of drink, including beer, wine, or spirits.

For example, “I could use a tipple after a long day at work.”
A person might say, “Let’s go out for a tipple tonight.”
In a social gathering, someone might offer, “Would you like a tipple? We have a variety of options.”

17. Nip

A “nip” is a small amount of an alcoholic beverage, usually consumed quickly. It can refer to a shot of hard liquor or a small pour of any other type of drink.

For instance, “I’ll just have a nip to warm up.”
Someone might say, “I’ll take a nip of whiskey to calm my nerves.”
In a bar, a customer might ask, “Can I get a nip of your best tequila?”

18. Bubbly

This term is commonly used to refer to champagne or any other type of sparkling wine. It emphasizes the effervescence and bubbles in the drink.

For example, “Let’s celebrate with a glass of bubbly.”
Someone might say, “I prefer bubbly over still wine.”
In a wedding toast, a person might raise their glass and say, “Here’s to love and bubbly!”

19. Brown juice

This slang term specifically refers to whiskey, which is often brown in color. It is a playful and informal way of referring to the popular alcoholic beverage.

For instance, “I’ll have a glass of brown juice, please.”
A whiskey enthusiast might say, “There’s nothing like a good glass of brown juice to relax.”
In a conversation about favorite drinks, someone might mention, “I’m a fan of brown juice, especially bourbon.”

20. Grog

Originally used to describe a mixture of rum and water served to sailors, “grog” now refers to any strong alcoholic drink. It can be used to describe cocktails or other potent beverages.

For example, “I could use a glass of grog to warm me up.”
Someone might say, “This grog is really hitting the spot.”
In a bar, a customer might ask, “What’s your strongest grog on the menu?”

21. Libations

Libations is a term used to refer to alcoholic drinks. It is a more formal and sophisticated way of describing beverages that contain alcohol.

For example, at a cocktail party, one might say, “Please enjoy the libations we have prepared for you.”
In a restaurant, a server might ask, “Would you like to see our libations menu?”
A person might comment, “I enjoy trying new and unique libations when I go out.”

22. Nectar

Nectar is a slang term used to describe an alcoholic drink that is especially delicious or enjoyable. It is often used to convey a sense of pleasure or indulgence when consuming alcoholic beverages.

For instance, someone might say, “This margarita is pure nectar!”
At a wine tasting, a person might describe a particularly good wine as “nectar of the gods.”
A cocktail enthusiast might exclaim, “I’ve finally found the nectar of life with this amazing gin and tonic!”

23. Swill

Swill is a derogatory term used to describe low-quality or poorly made alcoholic beverages. It implies that the drink is of low value or not worth consuming.

For example, someone might say, “I wouldn’t touch that swill with a ten-foot pole.”
A person might comment, “The bar served nothing but swill at their happy hour.”
In a discussion about craft beer, someone might say, “I can’t stand the swill that passes for beer at some breweries.”

24. Libation

Libation is a term used to refer to a ritualistic pouring of a liquid, often an alcoholic drink, as an offering to a deity or spirit. It is typically done as a form of worship or as a way to honor the divine.

For instance, in ancient Greek and Roman cultures, people would pour wine as a libation during religious ceremonies.
In some modern spiritual practices, individuals might offer a libation of their preferred alcoholic beverage as a way to connect with their chosen deity.
A person might comment, “I always pour a libation before starting a new project as a way to seek blessings and guidance.”

25. Boozy

Boozy is an adjective used to describe a drink that contains a high amount of alcohol or has a strong alcoholic taste. It is often used to convey a sense of indulgence or enjoyment when consuming alcoholic beverages.

For example, someone might say, “I love a good boozy brunch with bottomless mimosas.”
At a party, a person might comment, “This punch is dangerously boozy.”
A cocktail enthusiast might say, “I prefer my cocktails on the boozy side to really feel the effects.”

26. Bevvie

This is a slang term for an alcoholic drink, usually used in the UK. It can refer to any type of alcoholic beverage, such as beer, wine, or spirits.

For example, “Let’s go grab a few bevvies at the pub.”
A person might say, “I could use a bevvie after a long day at work.”
In a social setting, someone might ask, “Can I get you a bevvie?”

27. Cup of cheer

This phrase is a lighthearted way to refer to an alcoholic drink, often used during festive occasions.

For instance, during a holiday party, someone might say, “Let’s raise a cup of cheer to celebrate!”
A person might ask, “Would you like a cup of cheer to toast to the occasion?”
In a cheerful gathering, someone might offer, “Come join us for a cup of cheer!”

28. Liquid lunch

This term refers to the act of drinking alcoholic beverages during lunchtime, instead of having a meal. It can also imply excessive drinking during lunch hours.

For example, “I had a liquid lunch with my colleagues to celebrate the end of the project.”
A person might say, “I’m not hungry, I think I’ll have a liquid lunch instead.”
In a casual conversation, someone might mention, “I heard he’s been having a few liquid lunches lately.”

29. Belt

This slang term refers to a strong alcoholic drink, typically consumed in one go or in large quantities. It can also imply drinking to get drunk quickly.

For instance, “He downed a belt of whiskey before giving his speech.”
A person might say, “I need a belt to numb the pain.”
In a party setting, someone might suggest, “Let’s do some shots and have a belt!”

30. Totty

This term is a slang word for an alcoholic beverage, commonly used in the UK. It can refer to any type of drink, such as beer, wine, or spirits.

For example, “I’ll have a pint of totty, please.”
A person might say, “Fancy a totty after work?”
In a social gathering, someone might ask, “What’s your favorite kind of totty?”

31. Giggle water

Giggle water is a slang term for an alcoholic drink. It is often used to refer to a drink that is particularly strong or has a humorous effect on the drinker.

For example, “Let’s go grab some giggle water and have a good time!”
In a party setting, someone might say, “The giggle water is flowing tonight!”
A person might jokingly say, “I need some giggle water to get through this boring event.”

32. Happy juice

Happy juice is a slang term for an alcoholic drink. It is often used to describe a drink that brings happiness or a sense of euphoria to the drinker.

For instance, “I could use a glass of happy juice after a long day.”
At a celebration, someone might say, “Let’s raise a glass of happy juice to toast the happy couple.”
A person might remark, “Happy juice always puts me in a good mood.”

33. Liquid dessert

Liquid dessert refers to a sweet alcoholic drink that is often consumed after a meal, similar to a dessert. It is usually rich in flavor and provides a sweet and indulgent experience.

For example, “I love treating myself to a glass of liquid dessert after a nice dinner.”
At a restaurant, a waiter might recommend, “Our liquid dessert menu includes a variety of creamy cocktails.”
A person might say, “Sometimes, a glass of liquid dessert is all you need to satisfy your sweet tooth.”

34. Giggle juice

Giggle juice is a slang term for an alcoholic drink. It is often used to describe a drink that has a lighthearted or humorous effect on the drinker, often leading to laughter or a sense of amusement.

For instance, “Let’s have some giggle juice and enjoy a fun night out.”
During a celebration, someone might say, “Pass around the giggle juice and let the laughter flow.”
A person might joke, “A glass of giggle juice is the secret to my happiness.”

35. Liquid gold

Liquid gold is a slang term for a high-quality alcoholic drink. It is often used to describe a beverage that is highly valued or considered to be of superior quality.

For example, “I treat myself to a glass of liquid gold on special occasions.”
At a bar, a bartender might recommend, “Our selection of liquid gold includes rare and premium spirits.”
A person might say, “A sip of liquid gold is worth every penny.”

36. Devil’s water

This term refers to whiskey, which is often associated with being strong and enticing like the devil. It can be used to describe any type of whiskey, whether it’s bourbon, scotch, or rye.

For example, a person might say, “I need a glass of devil’s water to unwind after a long day.”
In a bar, a customer might order, “Give me a shot of devil’s water.”
A whiskey enthusiast might discuss the different flavors and complexities of devil’s water.

37. Sip of heaven

This term refers to champagne, a sparkling wine often associated with celebration and luxury. It implies that drinking champagne is a heavenly experience.

For instance, someone might say, “A sip of heaven is the perfect way to ring in the new year.”
At a wedding, a guest might toast, “Cheers to the happy couple! Let’s all enjoy a sip of heaven.”
A wine connoisseur might describe the taste of a high-quality champagne as a true sip of heaven.

38. Liquid refreshment

This term refers to any type of alcoholic drink, but is often used to describe mixed drinks or cocktails. It implies that the drink is refreshing and enjoyable.

For example, someone might say, “I could use a liquid refreshment after a long day at work.”
At a bar, a customer might ask the bartender, “What’s your most popular liquid refreshment?”
A cocktail enthusiast might experiment with different ingredients to create their own unique liquid refreshments.

39. Lush

This term is slang for a person who is excessively drunk or intoxicated. It can be used to describe someone who regularly drinks to excess or someone who is currently inebriated.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s such a lush, he can’t go a night without getting drunk.”
At a party, a friend might joke, “Look at that lush stumbling around, they’ve had one too many.”
A bartender might refuse to serve a customer, saying, “I’m cutting you off, you’re already a lush.”

40. Sip and see

This term refers to a social gathering or event where people can sample and taste different types of alcoholic drinks. It implies that attendees can leisurely sip and enjoy a variety of beverages.

For example, someone might say, “I’m hosting a sip and see at my house, come try some new wines.”
At a brewery, they might advertise a sip and see event, saying, “Join us for a night of craft beer tasting at our sip and see.”
A wine enthusiast might attend a sip and see to discover new and unique flavors.

41. Tincture

A tincture is a concentrated alcoholic extract of a substance, often used for medicinal purposes. In the context of alcoholic drinks, it refers to a drink that contains a high concentration of a particular ingredient, such as herbs or spices, for its flavor or alleged health benefits.

For example, a bartender might create a tincture of lavender to add a floral note to a cocktail.
A mixologist might use a tincture of bitters to enhance the flavor profile of a drink.
Some people enjoy adding a few drops of tincture to their favorite spirit to create a unique and personalized drink.