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dramshop

An American term for a bar or establishment that sells alcohol by the measure, historically applied to small retail liquor outlets.

ˈdɹæmˌʃɑp136 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

An American term for a bar or establishment that sells alcohol by the measure, historically applied to small retail liquor outlets. The word has a legal dimension in American law — 'dram shop laws' hold establishments liable for harm caused by intoxicated patrons they served. It has a slightly archaic or formal register.

Several US states have dram shop liability laws that can hold a dramshop responsible if an intoxicated customer causes an accident.
Origin: From 'dram' (a small measure of spirits, from Greek 'drachme') + 'shop'; a place where spirits are sold in small quantities. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(US) A shop selling alcohol.

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