firkin

fir·kin

noun \ˈfər-kən\

Definition of FIRKIN

1

: a small wooden vessel or cask

2

: any of various British units of capacity usually equal to ¹⁄₄ barrel

Examples of FIRKIN

1. <the innkeeper opened up a firkin of his special ale for the weary travelers>

Origin of FIRKIN

Middle English, ultimately from Middle Dutch veerdel fourth, from veer four; akin to Old English fēower — more at four

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to FIRKIN

Synonyms: barrel, butt, cask, hogshead, keg, kilderkin, pipe, puncheon, rundlet (or runlet), tun

Related Words: scuttlebutt; cistern, tub, vat; can, drum

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Rhymes with FIRKIN

gherkin, jerkin, Serkin