Nip joint
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A nip joint was an illicit establishment during the Prohibition era where patrons could surreptitiously purchase and consume small servings ("nips") of alcohol. These covert operations provided a discreet venue for those seeking to circumvent the alcohol ban, offering tiny portions to minimize detection risk.
The term combines "nip," referring to a small amount of spirits, with "joint," a colloquial expression for a place or establishment, similar to how "beer joint" is used to describe a bar or tavern.
History
Nip joints—found most commonly in Appalachia and similar areas where corn is grown in abundance—are venues where illegal liquor (i.e., moonshine) is sold, often by the drink. Most nip joints are located in residential areas inside homes. The individual in charge is therefore referred to as the "House Man" or "House Lady". Some nip joints have more amenities than others.[1]
