rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryhogsheadLarge cask
noun

hogshead

HOGZ-hed/ˈhɔɡzˌhɛd/

A large liquid-storage cask of a recognized capacity.

A hogshead of wine rests in the cool cellar.

A large oak cask resting horizontally on a low cradle, with a wooden tap and a small glass of red wine beneath it.
Etymology
hogsEnglishpig
+headEnglishhead

The literal image is a hog’s head, but why it named a barrel is uncertain. It may refer to a perceived resemblance or to a mark once borne by the casks.

In context

Storytime Haven555:59
A hogshead of it had been tilted from the battlement until soldiers, bridge, and ram were equally drenched in yellow slime.
Sir Nigel ⚔️🌟 | A Tale of Chivalry and Adventure | Arthur Conan Doyle

More examples

  • The workers roll two empty hogsheads into the warehouse.
  • The invoice lists one hogshead of cider.
  • We check the oak hogshead for leaks before filling it.

Forms

hogshead · hogsheads

Similar words

cask
A broader term for a liquid-storage barrel, without specifying capacity.
barrel
A broader container term, also used for storing dry goods.