gargle

 
Pronunciation: /ˈgɑːg(ə)l/

verb

[no object]
  • wash one’s mouth and throat with a liquid that is kept in motion by breathing through it with a gurgling sound: he gargled with alcohol for toothache

noun

  • an act or the sound of gargling: a swig and gargle of mouthwash
  • [usually in singular] a liquid used for gargling: a gargle for sore throats
  • British informal an alcoholic drink: they refused him a gargle

Origin:

early 16th century: from French gargouiller 'gurgle, bubble', from gargouille 'throat' (see gargoyle)