The highball may be named after a 19th-century railroad signal — a ball raised high meant "all clear" — suggesting a quick drink for people on the move.
An alcoholic drink consisting of a spirit mixed with a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer such as soda water, served in a tall glass; also, a railroad signal meaning "proceed at full speed."
Origin uncertain. The cocktail sense may derive from the railroad term highball, referring to a ball signal raised high on a pole to indicate clear track ahead, suggesting full speed. The transfer to a drink served in a tall glass may reference the tall glass (high ball) or the idea of a quick drink consumed at speed. Key roots: *kauko- (Proto-Germanic: "high"), ball (Old