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Where did the term "proof" come from?

Discussion in 'Off Topic [BG]' started by reel big bassist, Sep 30, 2002.


  1. Sep 30, 2002 #1
    reel big bassist

    reel big bassist

    Mar 27, 2000
    Maryland
    Hello fellow talkbassers,
    Come this wednsday I will be 21 years old. I'm really excited. Now I have a question for you guys and gals. Where did the term "proof" originate from? Why don't we just say 40% alcohol instead of 80 proof. I think saying 40% alcohol is clearer. Thanks guys and gals, this has been puzzling me for the longest time.
    Sincerely,
    -Greg P
     
  5. Sep 30, 2002 #2
    JMX

    JMX Vorsprung durch Technik

    Sep 4, 2000
    Cologne, Germany
    taken from:

    http://www.ex.ac.uk/cimt/dictunit/notes6.htm#whatproof
     
  10. Sep 30, 2002 #3
    reel big bassist

    reel big bassist

    Mar 27, 2000
    Maryland
    Thanks JMX for clearing that up. I always wondered what the origin of "proof" was.
     
  14. Sep 30, 2002 #4
    Eric Cameron

    Eric Cameron

    Mar 24, 2000
    6.02 x 10^23 microns away
    I always thought it was what you said when you took a good hard slug of something that read, "Best if not drunk near open flame" on the label.

    :D

    Rock on
    Eric
     
  18. Sep 30, 2002 #5
    Bigfeet

    Bigfeet Registered

    Jun 21, 2001
    in my own little spot... don't touch me!
    I want my absinthe ****it! 78% proof... :eek:
     
  22. Sep 30, 2002 #6
    tallguybcs

    tallguybcs Guest

    Feb 11, 2000
    San Diego State University
    78 proof? Paah! 80 proof or bust :D
     
  26. Sep 30, 2002 #7
    DanGouge

    DanGouge

    May 25, 2000
    Canada!
    Ron Brugal 151 proof, that's where it's at!
     
  31. Sep 30, 2002 #8
    ATLPUNK246

    ATLPUNK246

    Jun 26, 2001
    no... everclear- 190 proof is where it's at
     
  35. Sep 30, 2002 #9
    Eric Cameron

    Eric Cameron

    Mar 24, 2000
    6.02 x 10^23 microns away
    If it doesn't make your short and curlies stand straight out it ain't a good drink.

    I love that quote.:D

    Rock on
    Eric
     
  39. Sep 30, 2002 #10
    merlin

    merlin

    Apr 15, 2000
    Adelaide, South Australia
    Have you got proof of that? har har :rolleyes:

    We dont use that term here. its just 20% etc...

    :D:D

    Merls
     
  43. Sep 30, 2002 #11
    tallguybcs

    tallguybcs Guest

    Feb 11, 2000
    San Diego State University
    Have you actually TRIED that?

    Ill stick to 2 shots of vodka to one of everclear.
     
  47. Oct 1, 2002 #12
    ATLPUNK246

    ATLPUNK246

    Jun 26, 2001
    Yes I have. Its actually good. It tastes like vodka when mixed with somthing, but straight is no good