Tapster is a word that refers to a person who draws and serves drinks from a cask or barrel. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is ˈtæpstər. The first syllable 'tap' is pronounced with a short vowel /æ/ as in 'cat' sound, followed by the consonant sound /p/. The second part of the word, 'ster', is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/ and the consonant sound /t/. Overall, tapster is an interesting word that highlights the historical practice of serving drinks from casks.
A tapster is an archaic term referring to a person, typically a male, who is employed to serve drinks, particularly alcoholic beverages, at a tavern, inn, or pub. Derived from the word "tap," which refers to the act of drawing or dispensing liquid from a container, and "ster," suggesting a person who performs a particular task, a tapster is primarily responsible for operating and maintaining the taps on beer barrels or casks, as well as serving drinks to customers.
In addition to pouring and serving drinks, a tapster was expected to possess knowledge regarding the various types of beverages offered, ensuring that appropriate drinks were served to customers and that the quality of the beverages remained high. In the past, tapsters were often regarded as individuals with expertise and a level of authority in the realm of drink service.
While the role of a tapster has largely become obsolete in modern times due to the evolution of automation and self-service in the hospitality industry, the term can still be found in historical texts and novels set in earlier eras. Today, the responsibilities traditionally associated with a tapster typically fall to bartenders or servers in bars, pubs, and similar establishments.
One whose business is to draw liquor from the cask.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tapster" is derived from the combination of two words: "tap" and "ster".
The word "tap" originates from the Old English word "tæppa", which means "a tap, stopper, or spigot". It refers to a device used to control the flow of liquid, particularly beer or ale, from a barrel or container.
The second part, "ster", is a suffix used in Middle English to denote a person associated with a particular task, often a trade or occupation. It is derived from the Old English "-estre" or "-ister", which are feminine forms of agent nouns, indicating a female doer or performer. Over time, "-ster" became a general gender-neutral suffix, similar to "-er" or "-or" used today.