A “back” is a small glass of something that accompanies a drink. Thus, a water back is simply a small glass of water ordered with a drink. Shots and drinks served neat often call for a water back. Backs are often referred to as chasers and the terms commingle often. For example, many folks will order a shot with a beer back or a beer chaser. While drinks can be specifically ordered “no chaser,” it is typically unnecessary. Be careful in the United Kingdom however, as a chaser there usually refers to a shot taken after the pint of beer.
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