hogshead UK /ˈhɒɡzˌhɛd/US /ˈhɑɡzˌhɛd/ noun2 •A cask of a certain size; its volume used as a measure of capacity for liquids, containing 63 wine gallons, or about 52+¹⁄₂ imperial gallons (a half pipe).[...] their vessels for use are made some of clay, of which sort some are so great as that they will containe more then one hogshead of water. — 1632 •A large barrel or cask of indefinite contents, especially one containing from 100 to 140 gallons.[...] Now the Shippe boaring the Moone with her maine Mast, and anon swallowed with yest and froth, as you'ld thrust a Corke into a hogshead. — 1610 formshogsheads
