Adam's ale

idiom

Meaning

Water.

Origin

first recorded 17th c.

Attested in 1643. A reference to the only drink available to Adam, the first man in the biblical tradition, while in Eden.

Examples

SIMPLE

I do not want soda, just a glass of Adam's ale.

CONTEXTUAL

After the long hike in the summer heat, we were happy to drink some cool Adam's ale.

COMPLEX

The weary traveler declined the offer of wine, requesting only a cup of Adam's ale to quench his thirst.

Anchors to

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