To drink (
intoxicating liquor), especially repeatedly, and in small quantities.
There are plenty of people who drink just enough to be
under the radar, but they do this to relieve stress and cope with
emotional difficulties. They drink enough to get drunk over an elongated period of time.
A modern day McCourt might tipple.
Paris: I am such a mess. I need to drink some cognac or brandy.
Nicole: I
thought you said you were done with the whole tipple
situation?
Lindsay: Nah, I got her started again. It's not a bad thing.
Paris: Hott.