on the rocks

English dictionary entry

Meanings

prep_phrase
  1. Poured over ice, usually in reference to alcoholic drinks.
  2. In a bad state; experiencing difficulties or at risk of failing.

Pronunciation

En-au-on the rocks.ogg

Word forms

on the rocks

Etymology

From the allusion of a ship running aground against rocks and breaking apart. The poured over ice sense is due to ice's resemblance to rocks.

Related words

Derived words

on-the-rocks glass rocks glass
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