The phrase "goes on the wagon" is often used to describe someone who has abstained from alcohol. The IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /ɡoʊz ɑn ðə ˈwæɡən/. The spelling of "goes" is straightforward, as it follows the traditional orthography for the verb in the present tense. However, the challenge lies in the spelling of "wagon," which has a silent "g." This reflects the word's origin in Old Norse, where the "g" was pronounced but eventually dropped out of use in modern English.
To "go on the wagon" is an idiomatic expression which refers to a person's decision or commitment to abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages. It is commonly used to describe the act of voluntarily quitting or taking a break from drinking alcohol, often for a set period or as a long-term lifestyle change.
This phrase originated from the practice of a horse-drawn wagon, commonly called a "water wagon" or "temperance wagon," used during the Prohibition era to transport water or non-alcoholic beverages to quench the thirst of individuals who were refraining from consuming alcoholic drinks. Therefore, "going on the wagon" alludes to choosing to climb aboard this wagon and become one of those who promote sobriety.
The decision to go on the wagon is often driven by various reasons such as health concerns, personal growth, desire to break free from addiction, or as a part of recovery from alcohol-related issues. It typically involves a conscious effort to stay away from environments or activities where alcohol is present, as well as seeking support groups or professional help to maintain sobriety.
"Going on the wagon" is often seen as a way to improve one's physical and mental well-being while also regaining control over one's life. It is a significant step towards establishing healthier habits and achieving personal goals that may be hindered by excessive alcohol consumption.