The term “tumbler” is generically used to reference glass vessels for holding liquids; there is no defined size or shape for it. Typically, the tumbler either has a listed size or is preceded by a name like: Collins, Highball, Lowball, or other standardized naming convention.

The most common etymology holds that the original glasses used as tumbler glasses had bases that either rounded out or came to a point, making them impossible to put down because they would 'tumble' over. This limitation is explained either as a result of glass-making practices of the day, or as an intentional design flaw to inspire patrons to imbibe more alcohol by requiring them to finish their drink before they could put it down. An alternate etymology of the term “tumbler” cites the 17th century use of the phrase “Venice glass tumblers” to describe glass makers who made the these types of glasses ¹⁾