barley-bree

English

Etymology

Literally "barley broth". See brew.

Noun

barley-bree (uncountable)

1. (humorous, obsolete, Scotland) Liquor that is made from barley; strong ale.

   Synonym: barley-broo

   • 1785, Robert Burns, Scotch Drink:

     When neibors anger at a plea, / An' just as wud as wud can be, / How easy can the barley-bree / Cement the quarrel! / It's aye the cheapest lawyer's fee, / To taste the barrel.