HIGHBALLS Meaning and
Definition
-
Highballs are drinks that consist of a single spirit, usually whiskey, combined with a larger portion of a non-alcoholic mixer such as soda water or ginger ale. This results in a refreshing and effervescent beverage. The term "highball" originated in the late 19th century, when it was used as a railroad signal to indicate that a train could proceed at full speed. Due to the association with speed and momentum, the term was later adopted to describe a drink that has a quick and direct effect.
Highballs are typically served in tall, slender glasses known as highball or Collins glasses, which help to showcase the vivid colors of the drink and accommodate the generous amount of mixer. The proportion of mixer to spirit can vary, but highballs generally contain a higher volume of mixer compared to other mixed drinks. The mixer serves to dilute the spirit, making highballs smoother and more approachable than straight spirits.
The versatility of highballs allows for endless variations and customization. Aside from whiskey, other spirits like vodka, gin, and rum can also be used as the base. The choice of mixer can range from plain soda water for a straightforward highball, to flavored sodas or fruit juices for a more complex and fruity concoction. Highballs are often garnished with a citrus twist, fruit slice, or a sprig of herbs, enhancing both the visual appeal and the aromatic experience of the drink.
Highballs are enjoyed by a wide range of cocktail enthusiasts due to their simplicity, lightness, and refreshing nature. They are often favored during casual social gatherings, as they have a lower alcohol content than some other mixed drinks, making them easy to consume and enjoy in larger quantities without becoming overly intoxicated.
Common Misspellings for HIGHBALLS
Etymology of HIGHBALLS
The word "highball" originated in the United States in the late 19th century and has its roots in the world of railway communication. In those days, train engineers and dispatchers used a signaling system in which different colored balls were raised on a pole to convey messages. A "highball" was a signal to proceed at full speed, indicating that the track ahead was clear.
In the early 20th century, the term "highball" began to be used in a different context as a cocktail name. It referred to a mixed drink comprising a base spirit (usually whiskey) and a non-alcoholic mixer like soda water or ginger ale. The drink was called a "highball" because the glass used to serve it was tall and slim, resembling the signaling poles with the high-raised ball.
Similar spelling words for HIGHBALLS
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
