hold liquor

hold (one's) liquor

To be able to consume alcohol without becoming noticeably intoxicated or exhibiting other negative effects, such as becoming ill or unconscious. To have a high tolerance for alcohol. I'm sorry for acting like such a fool at the party—I don't even remember what happened. I guess I just can't hold my liquor. A: "Wow, Jennifer has had five cocktails and still seems totally sober." B: "Oh yeah, that girl can hold her liquor."See also: hold, liquor

hold one's liquor

Fig. to be able to drink alcohol in quantity without ill effects. Old Jed can sure hold his liquor—and a lot of it, too. I asked him to leave because he can't hold his liquor.See also: hold, liquor