John Barleycorn

American  

noun

1. a personification of barley as used in malt liquor, of malt liquor itself, or of any intoxicating liquor.

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John Barleycorn British  

noun

1. humorous the personification of alcohol, esp of malt spirits

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Etymology

Origin of John Barleycorn

First recorded in 1610–20

Example Sentences

The New York Times took a cheekier approach with its front page headline: “John Barleycorn Died Peacefully at the Toll of 12.”

From New York Times

But come November Hangman wakes up again, sort of like John Barleycorn in reverse.

From Literature

Later, about 300 people gathered for a fundraiser at John Barleycorn in River North, where the price of admission was a symbolic $20.16 per person.

From Chicago Tribune

Chicago bars using facial detection software Need to know how crowded John Barleycorn is right now?

From Chicago Tribune

To her further amazement, Uncle remained at home that evening instead of going to the Sir John Barleycorn.

From Project Gutenberg