VocabDictionary

highball

/ˈhaɪ.bɔːl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An alcoholic drink composed of a spirit mixed with a larger amount of a non-alcoholic mixer, served in a tall glass over ice.

Example Sentences:
  • He ordered a whiskey and soda as an evening highball.
  • The bartender prepared refreshing gin highballs for the guests at the patio party.
2.verb

To travel or proceed at a high speed, especially of a train or vehicle.

Example Sentences:
  • The freight train highballed down the tracks toward the city.
  • They highballed down the highway to beat the incoming storm.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “highball”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating in the late 19th century in the United States, the term likely has two possible roots: railroad slang where a 'high ball' signal meant for a train to proceed at full speed (derived from a raised ball signal), or bartender slang where 'high' referred to a tall glass and 'ball' was nineteenth-century slang for a glass of whiskey.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Picture a tall glass (high) with a round ice cube (ball) filled with a refreshing mixed drink.

Frequently Asked Questions About “highball

1. What is the meaning of “highball” in English?

In English, highball (noun) is defined as: “An alcoholic drink composed of a spirit mixed with a larger amount of a non-alcoholic mixer, served in a tall glass over ice.”.

2. How do you use “highball” in a sentence?

He ordered a whiskey and soda as an evening highball.

3. What are English synonyms of “highball”?

Common synonyms include:mixed drink,cocktail,drink,speed

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “highball”?

Originating in the late 19th century in the United States, the term likely has two possible roots: railroad slang where a 'high ball' signal meant for a train to proceed at full speed (derived from a raised ball signal), or bartender slang where 'high' referred to a tall glass and 'ball' was nineteenth-century slang for a glass of whiskey.