What are other kinds of nog are there besides egg?

In certain parts of England the term "nog" refers to strong ale, but, it's possible that the term 'nog' actually derives more directly from another other noun; 'nogging'.

Since approximately 1400, or so, during the period when the first manufacture of basic rough crude brick was developing, it became the practice of builders to use 'nogging' to fill gaps or voids in the vacant sections of their roughly hewn timber-frame constructed buildings. This process of shoring up or stiffening was called 'nogging', sadly, for no known or recorded reason.

Thus, a poorly made timber-frame wall, corner, or other structure could be reinforced easily, quickly and cheaply by 'nogging' it, or...'putting in some 'nogging'. The structure would then look, to the customer, like a solid brick structure, merely bounded by the (shoddy) timber frame. It would probably last long enough for the (shoddy) contractor to be paid, which was, of course, the main objective of the contractor, before the whole dreadful mess collappsed...hopefully not on the owners...timber-framing, 'nogging', and all.

So...it's possible that a 'landlord'(pub owner) would see a patron unlikely to remain vertical for long, and offer to give him a 'nog', just to 'brace him up' ...keep him standing... perhaps just long enough so that the landlord could get himself paid, before the... inevitable... collapse.

Having seen many shoddy landlords and unstable, unsteady patrons in my time...I believe it easily possible.

First answer by Jayrusalem. Last edit by Mycroft414. Contributor trust: 16 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 38 [recommend question]