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WHERE DOES THE EXPRESSION ‘TO DRINK A CANNON’ COME FROM?

2722 Views Posted on: 2024-06-10
 

The Origin of the Phrase "Boire un Canon"

An Expression from the 16th Century

Chances are you've used this phrase to invite a friend to enjoy a good glass of wine with you. But do you know where it comes from?

We use the word "canon" in many situations: to describe something amazing, or someone we find physically attractive... But in the case of the expression "boire un canon" ("drink a cannon"), the word "canon" refers to a unit of measurement used for wine and other alcoholic beverages. This practice dates back to the 16th century. At that time, a "canon" represented 6 centiliters, which is 1/16 of a pint. Wine was therefore drunk in 6-centiliter glasses. A small amount when you consider that today a glass of wine typically contains between 9 cl and 20 cl depending on the type.

A Common Expression Since the 19th Century

It is also said that this expression refers to the way of drinking wine (or another alcohol) in one go, like a cannon shot. But this image might also come from the sound glasses make when clinking together, similar to a cannon shot. Entering everyday language in the 19th century, the expression has survived through the ages and is still used today. There are also some variations like "boire un coup" ("drink a shot"), which also refers to glasses that are drunk in one go... or in one shot!

And what about the expression "pinard"? Do you know its origin ?