bowse

English

Alternative forms

• bouse

Etymology 1

From Middle Dutch busen.

Verb

bowse (third-person singular simple present bowses, present participle bowsing, simple past and past participle bowsed)

1. (archaic) To drink excessively and socially.
   • 1819, John Keats, "Lines on the Mermaid Tavern":

     O generous food! / Dressed as though bold Robin Hood, / Would, with his maid Marian, / Sup and bowse from horn and can.

Noun

bowse (plural bowses)

1. A carouse; a drinking bout; a booze.

Etymology 2

Origin unknown.

Verb

bowse (third-person singular simple present bowses, present participle bowsing, simple past and past participle bowsed)

1. (nautical) To haul or hoist (something) with a tackle.