Down the Hatch
Definition: “Down the hatch” means to drink it down, and it’s typically used as a toast. The phrase is reminiscent of naval terminology, referring to an opening on a ship’s deck through which cargo, passengers, or crew can pass. The metaphor extended to the human mouth or throat long before this modern usage came into being.
Fun with Language 🍾
“Feeling down the hatch? Time for a toast!”
Cheers to Similar Terms 🥂
- Here’s to you! – A toast to someone’s health or success.
- Bottoms up! – Prompting others to drink.
- Chug it! or Chug-a-lug! – Asking to drink quickly.
- One for the road – A final drink before leaving.
- Raise your glass – Preparing for a toast.
Proverbs and Common Sayings 🗣️
- Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die. – Enjoy life while one can.
- A toast to your health – Traditional well-wishing during a toast.
- May the road rise up to meet you – Classic line from an Irish blessing, often used in toasts.
Humor-Filled Quotes 😄
- “I only drink on two occasions – when I am thirsty and when I’m not.” – Brendan Behan
- “Here’s to alcohol: the cause of, and solution to, all of life’s problems.” – Homer Simpson
- “Drinking a glass of wine can be a reminder that life is to be savored and enjoyed.” – Author unknown.
Inspirational and Literary References 📚
- Malcolm Lowry’s “Ultramarine” (1933): “Well, let’s shoot a few whiskies down the hatch.” A vivid use of our idiom in print.
- “The Joy of Cooking” by Irma S. Rombauer: Features the phrase in numerous cocktail recipes.
- “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” by Hunter S. Thompson: A novel drenched in liquor and legendary celebrations.
Songs and Movies 🎦
Songs:
- “Tequila Sunrise” by Eagles
- “Cheers (Drink to That)” by Rihanna
- “Raise Your Glass” by Pink
Movies:
- “The Hangover” – A comedy filled with unforgettable celebrations.
- “Sideways” – A poetic ode to wine and friendship.
- “Casablanca” – Famous for Rick’s Café Americain, where many dreams are toasted.
### Which of these is a well-known expression related to drinking?
- [x] Bottoms up!
- [ ] Hats in the wind
- [ ] Clothes to the wash
- [ ] Forks on the right
> **Explanation:** "Bottoms up!" is a well-known expression used to prompt drinking. The others are nonsensical in this context!
### Which phrase is an actual idiom?
- [ ] Fingers in the hat
- [ ] Faces in the hat
- [x] Down the hatch
- [ ] Cheeks in the jacket
> **Explanation:** "Down the hatch" is an actual idiom referring to drinking. The others are humorous fabrications.
### True or False: 'One for the road' means to keep an extra drink in the car.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False. 'One for the road' means having a final drink before leaving a place, not keeping a drink in the car.
Inspirational Thought: ⭐ “Toast to new beginnings, sip to sweet moments, and ‘down the hatch’ to every merry memory we make. Cheers!” ⭐
