“Drink” does the job — but the right alternative does more. Here are 6 curated replacements, each with a definition, pronunciation, and an example of it working on the page.
To drink, especially alcohol, or to absorb something deeply.
“They sat on the terrace as the sun dipped low, imbibing cold wine and trading old stories.”
Best for: Works well in formal writing or when adding a touch of wit to casual drinking scenes.
To drink heartily and with obvious enjoyment.
“He quaffed the dark ale in one long, triumphant pull and slammed the tankard down.”
Best for: Perfect for vivid, energetic prose — especially tavern scenes or boisterous celebrations.
To take small sips or mouthfuls of liquid.
“She supped her broth slowly, letting the warmth spread through her cold, tired bones.”
Best for: Best in quiet, intimate or pastoral scenes; carries an old-fashioned, gentle quality.
To drink alcohol habitually or in small, repeated amounts.
“Every evening without fail, he'd settle into his chair and tipple his favourite Scotch.”
Best for: Slightly playful and informal; suits character sketches or affectionate narrative description.
To drink in large, greedy gulps directly from a container.
“She swigged from the canteen and wiped her mouth with the back of her dusty hand.”
Best for: Raw and visceral — ideal for gritty, action-driven or working-class narratives.
An archaic term meaning to drink frequently in small amounts.
“The old poet would bib his claret through the long afternoons, scribbling verse between sips.”
Best for: Extremely rare and archaic; best reserved for historical fiction or deliberate stylistic flourish.
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