Definition

Noun: 1. A large drinking bowl or vessel: A jorum is a large bowl, often with handles, traditionally used for serving drinks such as punch, wine, or ale. 2. The contents of such a bowl: By extension, "jorum" can also refer to the large quantity of drink contained within such a bowl.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to the vessel:
  • The host brought out a silver jorum filled with spiced punch for the guests.
  • In the old tavern, a pewter jorum sat on the bar for serving ale.
• Referring to the contents:
  • He drank a whole jorum of wine by himself and became quite merry.
  • They shared a jorum of hot toddy to ward off the winter chill.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Literary Context: The word "jorum" is now considered archaic or literary. It is most commonly encountered in historical texts, classic literature, or used to create an old-fashioned or whimsical tone.
  • The novel described a festive scene with a jorum of mead being passed around the Viking hall.
• Figurative Use: It can be used humorously or figuratively to describe any large container or amount of liquid.
  • After the marathon, he needed a jorum of water to rehydrate.

Variants and Related Words

• Joram: An alternate, less common spelling of "jorum."

Synonyms

• Bowl: A general term for a round, open dish.
• Punch bowl: A large bowl specifically for serving punch.
• Flagon: A large container for drinks, typically with a handle, spout, and lid.
• Ewer: A large jug or pitcher.

Antonyms

• Thimble: A very small cup or container, used humorously to contrast with a large vessel.
• Sip: A very small amount of drink.

Notes on Meaning

• The primary and most specific meaning of "jorum" is a large drinking bowl. The meaning of a bowlful of drink is a secondary, metonymic sense derived from the primary one. It is not typically used for modern, everyday drinking glasses or cups.

Noun

1. a large drinking bowl