← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: The locals could drink me under the table after a single round.

Drink someone under the table

Meaning

Outdrink another person.

Usage

Used for friendly boasts about alcohol tolerance.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Imagery of drinking until someone falls too drunk to remain seated.

Common in 19th-century tavern lore and later sporting tales.

Related Idioms

Under the table

Secret and often illegal payment.

Give someone your blessing

Approve another person’s plan.

Water under the bridge

Past events that are forgiven or no longer important.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.