Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/drɑːft/

Definitions

• Noun: A flow of air, typically through a narrow opening or space; a current of air.
• Noun: A drink, especially of beer or other alcoholic beverages, served from a cask rather than a bottle or can.
• Noun: A portion of a liquid (such as beer or wine) drawn from a larger container.
• Noun: A plan or sketch, particularly one that serves as a preliminary version or model for a final product (e.g., architectural draft).
• Verb: To drink or take in liquid in one gulp or portion.

Usage Examples

• "There was a cold draught coming from the open window."
• "He ordered a draught of beer from the tap."
• "She took a draught from the glass and sighed contentedly."
• "The architect showed us the draught of the new building."

Etymology

The word "draught" originates from the Old English word "dræht," meaning "drawing" or "pulling." It is derived from the verb "dragan," which means "to pull" or "to draw." In its early usage, "draught" referred to the act of drawing or pulling, such as pulling a cart or drawing water. Over time, the word came to be associated with the idea of drawing a drink or liquid, which led to its modern sense as a drink drawn from a container, as well as its use to describe air currents.

Synonyms

• Draft
• Current
• Gust
• Blow
• Portion

Antonyms

• Stillness
• Calm
• Stagnation
• Quiet

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "draught" can vary by region, particularly between British and American English. In British English, the word is typically pronounced with a rounded "a" sound, similar to "draahft," whereas in American English, it may sound more like "draft," especially in the context of a drink or the action of drawing liquid from a container. The word also carries different intonations in various regions based on the local accent, but the meaning remains consistent.

Historical Usage

Historically, "draught" referred primarily to the drawing of liquids, especially alcoholic beverages, and to air currents. The term was commonly used in the context of shipbuilding and sailing, where it described the depth of water a ship draws, which relates to the term's origin. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass other areas such as gaming, and even to describe the pulling or drawing of various substances, including air or water.

Cultural Nuances

The word "draught" carries cultural significance, particularly in relation to pubs, bars, and breweries, where it is used to describe beer served directly from a barrel or cask. In British pubs, ordering a "draught pint" of beer evokes a specific image of traditional drinking culture. In contrast, "draughts" in the American context are often associated with drinks like soda or beer, and the term is sometimes used interchangeably with "tap" in modern parlance.

More Information

The word "draught" is multifaceted, encompassing everything from the physical flow of air to a drink drawn from a tap. Its usage has shifted over time but remains particularly entrenched in the vocabulary of both historical and modern contexts. The concept of "draught" evokes not only physical forces like air and liquid but also cultural practices, particularly in relation to beverages and pubs. In more formal contexts, "draught" is associated with technical or professional areas such as architecture or planning, where it may refer to a preliminary drawing or plan. Its versatility in different contexts makes it an enduring and evocative term.