Early 20th century; earliest use found in Archibald Ross Colquhoun (1848–1914), explorer, colonial administrator, and author. From Malay pahit bitter (of taste).
Definition of pahit in US English:
pahit
nounˈpɑːhɪt
In South-East Asia: a drink of gin and bitters.
Origin
Early 20th century; earliest use found in Archibald Ross Colquhoun (1848–1914), explorer, colonial administrator, and author. From Malay pahit bitter (of taste).