Claret: meaning, definitions and examples

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claret

[ˈklær.ɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

type of wine

Claret is a type of red wine that originates from the Bordeaux region of France. It is typically made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes. Claret is known for its deep red color, complex flavors, and ability to age well.

Synonyms

Bordeaux, red wine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
claret	Informal British English term for red wine, typically used when referring to Bordeaux wine. It has an old-fashioned or traditional nuance. He poured himself a glass of claret and settled down with a book. The dinner was excellent, especially the vintage claret they served.
red wine	A general term for any wine made from dark-colored grape varieties, used in everyday conversation without any particular specificity. Would you like a glass of red wine with your dinner? She prefers red wine over white because of its rich flavor.
Bordeaux	When referring specifically to red wines produced in the Bordeaux region of France. Used in more formal or detailed discussions about wine. This Bordeaux has a full-bodied flavor with hints of blackcurrant. The wine list features a selection of fine Bordeaux from the region's top vineyards.

Word

Description / Examples

claret

Informal British English term for red wine, typically used when referring to Bordeaux wine. It has an old-fashioned or traditional nuance.

He poured himself a glass of claret and settled down with a book.
The dinner was excellent, especially the vintage claret they served.

red wine

A general term for any wine made from dark-colored grape varieties, used in everyday conversation without any particular specificity.

Would you like a glass of red wine with your dinner?
She prefers red wine over white because of its rich flavor.

Bordeaux

When referring specifically to red wines produced in the Bordeaux region of France. Used in more formal or detailed discussions about wine.

This Bordeaux has a full-bodied flavor with hints of blackcurrant.
The wine list features a selection of fine Bordeaux from the region's top vineyards.

Examples of usage

Would you like a glass of claret with your steak?
She ordered a bottle of claret to celebrate the occasion.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

color

Claret is also used to describe a deep purplish-red color, similar to the color of the wine. It is often associated with sophistication and elegance.

Synonyms

deep red, purplish-red.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
claret	Often used to describe a specific type of red wine, originating from the Bordeaux region of France. Can also describe the color similar to this wine. We enjoyed a bottle of claret with our dinner. The claret color of his shirt stood out at the party.
deep red	Used to describe a rich, intense red color. Typically used for describing colors in a broader range of contexts, such as clothing, paint, or nature. She painted her nails a deep red. The deep red roses in the garden were stunning.
purplish-red	Used to describe something that is mostly red but with a noticeable hint of purple. Often used in artistic or descriptive writing to offer a more nuanced color description. The sunset turned the sky a beautiful purplish-red. Her dress was a striking purplish-red, catching everyone's eye.

Word

Description / Examples

claret

Often used to describe a specific type of red wine, originating from the Bordeaux region of France. Can also describe the color similar to this wine.

We enjoyed a bottle of claret with our dinner.
The claret color of his shirt stood out at the party.

deep red

Used to describe a rich, intense red color. Typically used for describing colors in a broader range of contexts, such as clothing, paint, or nature.

She painted her nails a deep red.
The deep red roses in the garden were stunning.

purplish-red

Used to describe something that is mostly red but with a noticeable hint of purple. Often used in artistic or descriptive writing to offer a more nuanced color description.

The sunset turned the sky a beautiful purplish-red.
Her dress was a striking purplish-red, catching everyone's eye.

Examples of usage

She wore a beautiful claret dress to the event.
The walls of the room were painted in a rich claret hue.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'claret' comes from the French term 'clairet', meaning 'clear' or 'light', referring to its bright color and clarity.
Historically, 'claret' referred to a specific type of wine from the Bordeaux region of France.
In the 14th century, the term was used in England to describe a light-bodied red wine enjoyed by nobility.

Historical Significance

Claret has been a favorite in British culture since the mid-19th century, often served at royal banquets and grand celebrations.
The wine was so popular among English aristocrats that it became a staple in their cellars, influencing Bordeaux winemaking practices.
During the 1800s, claret made its way to America, contributing to the growing wine culture in the United States.

Culinary Pairings

Claret pairs beautifully with red meats, especially lamb and beef, enhancing flavors in hearty dishes.
Cheeses like aged cheddar and blue cheese complement claret’s fruity notes and acidity.
It is also a great choice with rich sauces, making it a popular choice for gourmet meals.

Winemaking Process

Claret is made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes, known for their deep flavors.
The aging process in oak barrels gives claret its rich complexity and smooth finish.
Fermentation techniques vary, but many winemakers emphasize gentle extraction to keep the wine elegant.

Cultural References

Claret has been mentioned in famous literature, notably by Charles Dickens, showcasing its importance in Victorian dining.
In modern pop culture, claret often appears as a symbol of sophistication and luxury in films and media.
Wine critics often use claret as a benchmark for comparing other red wines due to its reputation and quality.

Translations

Translations of the word "claret" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vinho tinto escuro

🇮🇳 गहरा लाल शराब

🇩🇪 dunkelroter Wein

🇮🇩 anggur merah tua

🇺🇦 темно-червоне вино

🇵🇱 ciemnoczerwone wino

🇯🇵 濃い赤ワイン

🇫🇷 vin rouge foncé

🇪🇸 vino tinto oscuro

🇹🇷 koyu kırmızı şarap

🇰🇷 진한 적포도주

🇸🇦 نبيذ أحمر داكن

🇨🇿 tmavě červené víno

🇸🇰 tmavočervené víno

🇨🇳 深红葡萄酒

🇸🇮 temno rdeče vino

🇮🇸 dökkrautt vín

🇰🇿 қою қызыл шарап

🇬🇪 მუქი წითელი ღვინო

🇦🇿 tünd qırmızı şərab

🇲🇽 vino tinto oscuro

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,000, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21997 harpsichord
21998 bottomless
21999 carpal
22000 claret
22002 debacle
22003 terrier
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