Concoction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🍹
Add to dictionary

concoction

[kənˈkɒkʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

drink

A mixture of various ingredients or elements.

Synonyms

blend, combination, mixture.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
concoction

When referring to something that is creatively and sometimes unusually mixed together, often related to food or drinks.

  • The bartender's latest concoction included a surprising mix of herbs and spices.
  • She served a homemade concoction of various fruits and honey.
mixture

Used for substances or elements that are combined but not necessarily blended smoothly; often used in scientific, culinary, or casual contexts.

  • The cake recipe calls for a mixture of flour, sugar, and butter.
  • The sculpture was made from a mixture of metals and stones.
blend

Commonly used when talking about mixing elements smoothly and evenly, often related to beverages, music, or materials.

  • This wine is a blend of three different grapes.
  • The DJ created a perfect blend of old and new tracks.
combination

General use for referring to two or more things put together, without necessarily implying how well they mix. Can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.

  • The combination of these two colors works really well in the living room.
  • A good combination of skills and experience is required for this job.

Examples of usage

  • This cocktail is a delicious concoction of rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.
  • She created a special concoction of herbs and spices to cure the flu.
Context #2 | Noun

story

A made-up story or plot.

Synonyms

fabrication, fiction, invention.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
concoction

Use this word when talking about a mixture of ingredients or elements, often related to food or drinks, but can also be used metaphorically.

  • She served a delicious concoction of fruits and spices.
  • His story was nothing but a bizarre concoction of lies.
fabrication

This word is appropriate when referring to something that is made up or created, often with a sense of falsehood or deceit.

  • The alibi turned out to be a complete fabrication.
  • The company was accused of fabricating safety reports.
fiction

Use this word when referring to literature or stories that are imaginary, not real.

  • She loves reading science fiction novels.
  • The events in the book are pure fiction.
invention

This word is best used when talking about a new creation or device, particularly in regards to technological or conceptual innovations.

  • The light bulb was a groundbreaking invention.
  • His invention has the potential to change the industry.

Examples of usage

  • The movie had a complex concoction of characters and subplots.
  • His explanation was just a wild concoction to cover up the truth.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • In cooking, a concoction can refer to any creative blend, like unique sauces or cocktails.
  • Famous concoctions like the 'Bloody Mary' are known for their mix of various spirits and flavors.
  • Chefs often experiment with concoctions to create new dishes or signature flavors.

Literature

  • In literature, a concoction might refer to a plot or idea that mixes various themes or genres.
  • Many fantasy novels feature concocted potions that lead to unexpected adventures for the characters.
  • Famous authors often blend styles in their works, creating a literary concoction that feels fresh and unique.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers might refer to life's 'concoction' as the mix of experiences and ideas that shape our perspectives.
  • The concept of 'concoction' can imply the blending of rational thoughts with emotional experiences.
  • In discussions about identity, individuals are often seen as a concoction of their life experiences and relationships.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often create concoctions that serve as antidotes or spells, illustrating the theme of transformation.
  • Reality cooking shows frequently challenge contestants to create concoctions from mystery ingredients, showcasing culinary creativity.
  • The idea of concoctions is popular in video games where players mix items to craft new tools or potions.

Origin of 'concoction'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'concoctio', meaning 'to cook together'.
  • It entered the English language in the 14th century, originally referring to the process of cooking.
  • Over time, it broadened to include any mixture, not just food.

The word 'concoction' originated from the Latin word 'concoctio,' meaning 'digestion' or 'digestive process.' Over time, the term evolved to refer to the act of preparing a mixture of ingredients. In English, 'concoction' first appeared in the early 17th century and has since been used to describe both literal mixtures and fictitious stories.


See also: concoct.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,806, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.