Intoxicating Expressions Meaning Drunk | Ben Franklin’s List circa 1737

Ben Franklin published a list of over 200 dictionary words, slang definitions and phrases synonymous with being intoxicated in the Pennsylvania Gazette in 1737. Like similar inebriated sayings used today, these idioms contain a mixture of condemnation and humor to describe being groggy.

“The phrases in the dictionary are not borrowed from foreign languages .. but gathered wholly from the modern tavern conversation of tipplers.” ~ Ben Franklin

However, only one expression actually mentions a tavern and none use ‘bar’ or public house a.k.a ‘pub’ as a reference.  Here’s a condensed sampling of saucy synonyms for sloshed used during colonial times, many are still popular terms now.

Drinking Terminology:

• He is addled
• He’s afflicted
• Drunk as a wheel barrow
• Has stole a manchet out of the brewer’s basket
• Has drank more than he has bled
• As drunk as a beggar
• He’s had a thump over the head with Sampson’s jawbone
• Got corns in his head
• He’s been in the cellar
• Loaded his cart
• He’s been too free with the creature
• Took his drops
• Wet both eyes
• He’s eat a toad & a half for breakfast
• Owes no man a farthing
• Spoke with his friend
• Haunted with evil spirits
• Has taken Hippocrates grand elixir
• He’s in liquor
• Smelt of an onion
• Lost his rudder
• Half seas over
• He carries too much sail
• Has swallowed a tavern token
• The malt is above the water