Definition & Meaning of "swizzle"

What is "swizzle"?

A swizzle is a type of cocktail that is typically made with rum, lime juice, sugar, and bitters, served over crushed ice in a tall glass. The drink is known for its refreshing and tropical taste, and is often garnished with a sprig of mint or a slice of lime. The swizzle is named after the swizzle stick, a tool used to mix the drink by spinning it rapidly in the glass. The swizzle stick is traditionally made from a branch of the swizzlestick tree, which is native to the Caribbean. The swizzle has a long history, dating back to the early 19th century, and is a popular choice in tropical regions such as the Caribbean and South Pacific. The cocktail is easy to make and can be customized with different types of rum, fruit juices, and syrups to suit individual tastes.