[Cf. F. le vin de l’étrier, le coup de l’étrier.] A cup of wine or other drink handed to a man when already on horseback setting out for a journey; a parting glass.
1681. T. Flatman, Heraclitus Ridens, No. 29 (1713), I. 187. Let’s have one Stirrop Cup of Character; it’s the only modish Liquor now.
1683. G. Meriton, Praise York-sh. Ale (1685), 27. Wee’l have with you, a merry Stirrup Cupp.
1808. Scott, Marm., I. xxxi. Then came the stirrup-cup in course.
1899. Lady M. Verney, in Verney Mem. IV. 328. Such guests were sure of a hearty welcome and a potent stirrup-cup.
¶ b. Used for: A drink offered to an arriving guest before he has dismounted.
1869. Tozer, Highl. Turkey, II. 240. [She] goes out to meet him and offer him the stirrup-cup.
¶ c. Applied to the drinking-vessel.
1865. Kingsley, Herew., xv. Torfrida stood to welcome them, as fair as day a silver stirrup-cup in her hand.
