The Curious Case of 'Peg': Unraveling India's Unique Alcoholic Drink Term

• In India, alcoholic drinks are commonly ordered as 'small peg' or 'large peg', a term not used elsewhere.
• The term 'peg' is believed to be an acronym for 'Precious Evening Glass', originating from 18th-century UK coal miners.
• Miners received a small glass of alcohol (often brandy) after work, which became 'precious' for warmth and relief in harsh conditions.
• During British rule, the term and concept traveled to India, where 30 ml became a small peg and 60 ml a large peg.
• Despite its British origin, 'peg' became deeply ingrained in Indian culture, unlike in the UK where 'single' or 'double' are used.

Why It Matters: 'Peg' in India, meaning 'Precious Evening Glass', has a rich history from 18th-century British coal miners.