Tumbler (glass)

An oversized tumbler for serving chilled beverages, while reducing the need to frequently refill the glass

A tumbler is a flat-floored beverage container usually made of plastic, glass or stainless steel.

Theories vary as to the etymology of the word tumbler. One such theory is that the glass originally had a pointed or convex base and could not be set down without spilling. Another is that they had weighted bottoms which caused them to right themselves if knocked over.

• Collins glass, for a tall mixed drink
• Dizzy Cocktail glass, a glass with a wide, shallow bowl, comparable to a normal cocktail glass but without the stem
• Highball glass, for mixed drinks
• Iced tea glass
• Juice glass, for fruit juices and vegetable juices.
• Old fashioned glass, traditionally, for a simple cocktail or liquor "on the rocks". Contemporary American "rocks" glasses may be much larger, and used for a variety of beverages over ice
• Shot glass, a small glass for up to four ounces of liquor. The modern shot glass has a thicker base and sides than the older whiskey glass
• Table glass, faceted glass, or granyonyi stakan, common in Russia and made of particularly hard and thick glass
• Water glass
• Whiskey tumbler, a small, thin-walled glass for a straight shot of liquor

Originally, the term tumbler referred to a type of drinking glass with a pointed or rounded base, which prevented it from being put down until it was empty, encouraging the drinker to finish their beverage in one go. This design feature was not only a practical solution to the lack of flat surfaces in medieval times but also a novel way to ensure guests consumed their drinks quickly at gatherings. Over time, the design evolved into the flat-bottomed glassware we are familiar with today, which can comfortably sit on tables and counters without tipping over. The modern tumbler comes in various sizes and shapes, designed to accommodate a wide range of beverages from water and juice to sophisticated cocktails, showcasing its evolution from a functional necessity to a staple of everyday life and celebratory occasions alike. Tumblers can also be adorned with decor, such as gemstones and rhinestones.

Political

• The Jana Sena Party from India has been assigned a glass tumbler as a common election symbol.