noun

dram

DRAM/dræm/

A small amount, especially of strong alcoholic drink.

A small dram of whiskey sits in the clear glass.

A small serving of amber whiskey in a clear tasting glass, with an uncapped whiskey bottle behind it establishing the liquor context.

Etymology

dramGreeka measure of weight; a silver coin

The Greek weight-and-coin name probably originally meant “a handful.” In English, a dram became a small measure, including a fluid measure, and hence a small drink of liquor.

In context

Royal Philosophical Society of Glasgow54:30

give you a chance to have a dram and wet your throat again

A guided excursion round the geology of Islay

More examples

They enjoy a dram together after dinner.
She adds a dram of rum to the sauce.
He pours two drams of bourbon for his guests.

Forms

dram · drams

Similar words

sip: Emphasizes the amount taken in one small mouthful.
shot: Usually means a standard serving rather than any small amount.
drop: Suggests a very tiny amount, not necessarily alcohol.