What Is “dregs”? Meaning and Origin of the Well-Known Idiom

Where does “drink to the dregs” come from?
The idiom “drink to the dregs” has its roots in the drinking culture of past centuries. Especially in wine and beer barrels, the dregs were often clouded by sedimented solids such as yeast or tartar. Consequently, the term acquired a rather negative connotation.
In 18th-century student slang, specific rituals developed around drinking the dregs. The last bit was called the “shabby dregs,” and whoever drank it often had to fulfill special obligations or sing farewell songs.

Does “dregs” apply to all beverages or just alcohol?
“Dregs” by no means refers only to alcoholic beverages. The term can be used for any kind of liquid—from water to juice to coffee. Historically, it was often used in connection with wine and beer, but that was due to the drinking culture of the time, not a conceptual limitation.

“Dregs” in modern language
Today, we use “to the dregs” figuratively for anything that is coming to an end—be it supplies, time, or patience. The term’s original concrete meaning of the last bit of a drink has evolved into a versatile metaphor.