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Corking: meaning, definitions and examples

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corking

 

[ ˈkɔːrkɪŋ ]

Verb / Adjective
Context #1 | Verb

sealing bottles

Corking refers to the process of closing a wine or bottle with a cork in order to preserve its contents and prevent contamination. This technique has been used for centuries, particularly in wine production, to ensure freshness and flavor stability. Corks are typically made from the bark of cork oak trees, which are known for their unique properties. The corking process may involve using a corking machine that compresses the cork before inserting it into the neck of the bottle.

Synonyms

capping, plugging, sealing

Examples of usage

  • She started corking the wine bottles at the vineyard.
  • Corking preserves the flavors of the wine for years.
  • They invested in new machinery for corking efficiently.
Context #2 | Adjective

excellent quality

The term corking is also used informally in British English to describe something as excellent, remarkable, or outstanding. It expresses enthusiasm or admiration for something that has impressed or excited someone. The usage of corking in this sense adds a playful or informal tone to conversations, often highlighting something positive.

Synonyms

brilliant, fantastic, superb

Examples of usage

  • That was a corking good meal!
  • She gave a corking performance at the concert.
  • We had a corking time at the party.

Translations

Translations of the word "corking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tampando

🇮🇳 कोरकिंग

🇩🇪 Korken

🇮🇩 penutup

🇺🇦 корковий

🇵🇱 korkowanie

🇯🇵 コルク

🇫🇷 bouchonnage

🇪🇸 taponado

🇹🇷 mantar

🇰🇷 코르크

🇸🇦 سدادة

🇨🇿 zátkování

🇸🇰 korkovanie

🇨🇳 软木塞

🇸🇮 plutovinjenje

🇮🇸 korkun

🇰🇿 корк

🇬🇪 კორკის

🇦🇿 mantar

🇲🇽 tapado

Word origin

The word 'cork' originates from the Latin term 'cortex', meaning 'bark' or 'rind.' This is fitting, as corks come from the outer bark of the cork oak tree, primarily found in the Mediterranean region. The use of corks for sealing bottles dates back to the 17th century, when winemakers began to adopt them for preserving the quality of wine. Initially, the practice spread throughout Europe and eventually to the rest of the world. The informal use of 'corking' to describe something as excellent likely emerged in British English in the 19th century, reflecting the playful nature of the language. Over time, the term has retained its dual meanings, continuing to be relevant in both wine production and colloquial expressions of approval.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,977, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.