一いっ瓢ぴょう

noun

one gourd; a single gourd

Literal meaning: one gourd or calabash. Often appears in classical or poetic contexts, or in set phrases.

• 一いっ瓢ぴょうの酒さけを携たずさえて旅たびに出でる。

  Setting out on a journey with a single gourd of sake.

noun

small drink (esp. alcohol); drink one carries

By extension, a modest amount of alcohol, often carried in a gourd container. Evokes a rustic, simple, or solitary drinking scene.

• 彼かれはいつも一いっ瓢ぴょうを腰こしに下さげている。

  He always carries a small drink at his hip.