[f. as prec. + -ING2.] That swills or drinks greedily; addicted to excessive drinking. Also of a draught of liquor, Abundant ‘deep.’
1633. P. Fletcher, Purple Isl., VII. lxxv. Among the bows did swilling Bacchus ride.
1687. Dryden, Hind & P., III. 124. When at the fountains head … you take a swilling draught.
a. 1716. South, Serm. (1727), VI. 347. Of so peculiar a Force is Temperance against the fiercest Assaults of the Devil, and so unfit a Match is a soaking, swilling Swine to encounter this roaring Lion.
1802. Colman, Br. Grins, Elder Bro., xx. But there are swilling Wights, in London town, Term’d—Jolly dogs,—Choice Spirits.
1826. Disraeli, Viv. Grey, VI. i. A boisterous … party of swilling varlets.
