long drink of water

== English == === Etymology === The term originated in the United States, and was presumably used in vaudeville performances. It was derived from earlier Scots lang drink. === Pronunciation === (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /lɒŋ ˈdɹɪŋk əv ˈwɔːtə/ (General American) IPA(key): /lɔŋ ˈdɹɪŋk əv ˈwɔtɚ/, [- ˈwɔɾɚ] Hyphenation: long drink of wa‧ter === Noun === long drink of water (plural long drinks of water) (Scotland, US, slang) A tall person. [from 1910s] ==== Usage notes ==== The connotation of the term has varied over time. Early uses appear to be humorous and mildly derogatory in the sense of gangly or lanky. More recent American usage in the 21st century is often positive, suggesting that the person referred to is attractive. ==== Alternative forms ==== tall drink of water === References ===