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A round of drinks is a set of alcoholic beverages purchased by one person in a group for that complete group. The purchaser buys the round of drinks as a single order at the bar. In many places it is customary for people to take turns buying rounds.
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It is a nearly ubiquitous custom in Ireland, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. In Australia and New Zealand it is referred to as shouting. This practice is also customary in many parts of North America, especially in areas where people with cultural roots in Ireland and the UK predominate. A notable exception was the UK State Management Scheme in which treating (i.e. buying a round) was forbidden, from July 1916 until June 1919.
Australia
In John O'Grady's They're a Weird Mob, Nino learns some customs related to shouting.
Your turn.
What is my turn?Your turn to shout
Why should I shout?Because I shouted you.
I did not hear you shout at me.He thought for a while and said, I get it. When you buy a bloke a beer, it's called a shout, see?
Why is that?I haven't a clue, but that's what it's called. I shouted for you, now it's your turn to shout for me.
I was only a little thirsty. I do not think I wish another drink.He looked quite stern, In this country, if you want to keep out of trouble, you always return a shout, see?
Is this the custom?Bloody oath, it's the custom. Your turn.
United States
In the culture of the United States Military, possession of a challenge coin can be used to determine who buys a round of drinks. One individual of a group lays down their coin, and all else present must lay down their coins as well. Anyone who does not have a coin with them must buy a round. If everyone can produce a coin, the challenger must buy a round.