swizzle-stick

A bartender uses a swizzle-stick to mix a colorful drink.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A stick used for stirring alcoholic drinks: A "swizzle-stick" is a small rod, often decorative, used to mix cocktails or other beverages, especially by twirling it between the palms of the hands.

Usage Examples

• (A small rod for mixing the drink.)
• (Decorative stirring rods.)

Advanced Usage

• "to swizzle" (verb, derived): To stir a drink using a swizzle-stick.

  • He swizzled the rum punch with a bamboo stick. (He mixed the drink by twirling the stick.)

• "swizzle" (noun): A type of cocktail, often rum-based, traditionally stirred with a swizzle-stick.

  • The bartender prepared a classic rum swizzle for the guest. (A specific cocktail.)

Variants and Related Words

• Swizzle (noun): A cocktail or the action of stirring.

  • We ordered swizzles at the beach bar. (Alcoholic drinks.)

• Swizzler (noun): A person who uses a swizzle-stick or makes swizzles.

  • The swizzler at the party mixed drinks expertly. (The bartender or drink maker.)

Synonyms

• Stirrer: a utensil for mixing liquids.
• Cocktail stick: a small rod used in drinks, though often for garnishes rather than stirring.

Phrasal Verbs

• Swizzle up: To prepare or mix a drink quickly.
  • She swizzled up a batch of margaritas for the guests. (Mixed and served promptly.)

Related Idioms

• Swizzle-stick diplomacy: An informal term for light-hearted or casual negotiation over drinks.
  • The deal was settled through swizzle-stick diplomacy at the hotel bar. (Negotiation over cocktails.)