Rekówka

Rekówka is a historical Polish unit of liquid capacity, primarily used for measuring alcoholic beverages, especially vodka. Its value varied depending on the region and the specific period, but it generally represented a small, individual serving, approximately the amount that would fill a shot glass or small tumbler.

The etymology of the word "rekówka" likely derives from the Polish word "ręka" (hand), suggesting a quantity that could be easily held in one's hand or poured by hand. It was a common term in rural areas and among the gentry, representing a familiar measurement in everyday social interactions involving alcohol consumption.

While not a standardized unit, rekówka provided a practical means of portioning and distributing spirits. Records indicate varying sizes, ranging from around 25 ml to 50 ml. Its informal nature and dependence on local customs contributed to this lack of uniformity.

The term "rekówka" is less frequently used in modern Polish, with metric measurements (milliliters and liters) now standard. However, it remains a part of Poland's cultural heritage, often appearing in literature and historical accounts to evoke a sense of tradition and the convivial atmosphere surrounding the consumption of alcoholic beverages.