tie one on

Tie one on is a common idiom in American English that refers to getting drunk or excessively intoxicated. The phrase is informal and colloquial.

One theory suggests that the phrase originated from the practice of tying one's tie around the forehead as a makeshift bandage after a night of heavy drinking. This ties in with the idea of letting loose and indulging in excessive alcohol consumption. Another theory suggests that the phrase may have originated from the practice of tying a knot in a handkerchief or piece of cloth to remember something important after a night of heavy drinking. The idiom may have then evolved to refer to celebrating or indulging in excessive drinking.

The use of "tie" in the phrase could also be related to the idea of being bound or constrained by social expectations or responsibilities. By "tying one on", an individual is metaphorically freeing themselves from these constraints and allowing themselves to indulge without worrying about the consequences.

It is important to note that the phrase is not limited to alcohol consumption. It can be used more broadly to describe any act of excessive indulgence or celebration. For example, someone may say "I'm going to tie one on at the casino tonight" to indicate their plan to gamble extensively.

Furthermore, "tie one on" is typically used in a casual and lighthearted context, often in humorous or self-deprecating ways. It is a way to acknowledge and make light of the act of indulgence while also recognizing its potential consequences.