over the river

over the river

1. (dated, colloquial) Said before swallowing an alcoholic drink.

   Synonym: down the hatch

   • 1925, Munsey's Magazine, volume 85, page 460:

     "Over the river!" said Abe.
     Gene drank. As he set his glass down, he tried to push past us.

   • 1945, John Steinbeck, Cannery Row:

     Each of them got half a water-glass of the clear brown liquor. They waited ceremoniously for the captain and then they said: “Over the river,” and tossed it back.

• over the river and through the woods