#3: Half-seas Over

Definition:

: drunk

About the Word:

There's a lovely old English ditty, found in a book of British songs and verse from 1869, titled Half-Seas Over, which extols the benefits of a man getting slightly soused before attempting to wax romantic with a woman:

If maid or widow you would win, And wear your wished-for treasure, You'll find it best to fill your skin With just the proper measure. With less than that to feed your flame, You'll prove too cold a lover: While more might overshoot your aim; So woo her-half-seas over

[Note: We provide this citation only to illustrate the manner in which this word was used in the 19th century and take no responsibility for any romantic endeavors gone awry due to the taking of the ditty's advice.]