imbibe
im-BYB
/ɪmˈbaɪb/
To drink (especially alcohol); metaphorically, to absorb or take in ideas, knowledge, or moisture.
Elevated, slightly literary, often used with light irony when referring to alcohol consumption.
The story behind the word. Directly descended from Latin imbibere, composed of in- (into) and bibere (to drink). It entered Middle English in the late 14th century to describe plants drinking in moisture before expanding to human drink consumption and metaphorical absorption of knowledge.
Word relationships
- quaff: Quaff means to drink heartily or enthusiastically in large gulps.
- absorb: Absorb is neutral and applies to sponge-like intake of liquids or ideas.
- abstain: Abstain means deliberately refraining from drinking or indulging.
Commonly confused with
- imbue: Imbue means to inspire or fill with a quality or feeling, not to drink liquid.
Word family
- imbiber (noun): One who imbibes.
Collocations
- imbibe alcohol
- imbibe knowledge
- freely imbibe
- imbibe deeply
Example sentences
- "Guests were invited to imbibe imported vintages while enjoying live jazz music." Formal event description
- "Young scholars visit the ancient library to imbibe wisdom from classic manuscripts." Metaphorical usage
Memory hook
IMBIBE = IN-BIBE (drink IN). Drink in liquid or knowledge.
When not to use
Avoid in casual daily speech where 'drink' or 'have a beverage' is natural.
Fun facts
- Botany texts still use imbibe to describe how seeds absorb water during germination.
Also appears in
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