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to wet one's whistle
01
to have a glass of something, particularly an alcoholic drink
Humorous
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "wet one's whistle" and when to use it?
The idiom "wet one's whistle" originates from the historical practice of using a whistle or flute-like instrument, often made of bone or wood, to summon a server or bartender at a tavern or inn. Over time, this act was associated with the need for a drink, leading to the idiom "wet one's whistle" as a way to request or consume a beverage.
Example
I'm quite parched; I think I'll wet my whistle with a cold glass of lemonade.
After a long day's work, the team likes to gather at the pub to wet their whistles.
Let's take a break from our hike and wet our whistles at the water fountain.
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