Purpose: this article discusses which implicit meanings can be uncovered by means of the etymological analysis of the lexical units containing a numerical component as seen in the example of the lexemes which describe the degree of drunkenness in the English language. Methodology: method of continuous sampling; descriptive method, etymological analysis of the lexical units. Results: The analysis of the numerical component in the DRINKING concept helps one to better study the inner form of the latter and understand its cultural meanings. The ideas taken as a basis for the nomination of some phrases are impossible to clarify, however all the expressions describe a different degree of violation of the norm. Practical implications: lectures on stylistics and lexicology; teaching English as a foreign language; dictionary compiling; interpreter preparation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.12731/2218-7405-2013-7-6