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Digestif Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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digestif

[หˆdษชdส’ษ›stษชf ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

beverage type

A digestif is an alcoholic beverage served after a meal, intended to aid digestion. Originating from the French word 'digestif', these drinks are often stronger and more herbal than aperitifs, which are consumed before meals. Digestifs can include a variety of spirits such as brandy, whiskey, or herbal liqueurs, and are typically sipped slowly to relax after dining. In many cultures, the practice of enjoying a digestif has become a social custom that accompanies the conclusion of a meal.

Synonyms

after-dinner drink, brandy, liqueur.

Examples of usage

  • He ordered a grappa as a digestif.
  • After a large dinner, a refreshing digestif is essential.
  • They enjoyed an anisette digestif together at the end of the meal.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • In countries like France and Italy, itโ€™s common to drink a digestif after dinner as a social ritual.
  • Some popular types include herbal liqueurs, brandies, and fortified wines, each with distinct flavors tailored to enhance post-meal enjoyment.

Health and Wellness

  • Certain botanicals used in digestifs, such as gentian or chamomile, are believed to help ease the digestive process.
  • Moderate consumption has been linked to promoting better digestion, although excessive drinking can have the opposite effect.

Pop Culture

  • In films and novels set in European locations, scenes often depict characters bonding over a digestif, showcasing its role in societal interactions.
  • The concept has influenced modern cocktail culture, with mixologists creating innovative digestifs to serve after courses.

Regional Variations

  • In Mexico, 'digestif' spirits include 'mezcal' or 'tequila', traditionally sipped for their supposed digestive benefits.
  • Switzerland has a unique take with 'Fendant', a crisp white wine enjoyed after a hearty meal to help with digestion.

Origin of 'digestif'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the French word 'digรฉrer', meaning 'to digest', which reflects its purpose.
  • It entered the English language in the late 19th century, capturing the influence of French cuisine on fine dining.

The term 'digestif' is derived from the French language, which traces back to the Latin word 'digestivus' meaning 'relating to digesting'. The concept of digestifs originated in European dining culture, where it was customary to enjoy a small drink after a meal. This tradition can be linked to ancient Roman customs that involved the consumption of various herbal concoctions intended to facilitate digestion. Over the centuries, different regions have adopted their own unique interpretations of digestifs, often featuring local ingredients and flavors. The practice has been embraced in many cultures, with specific drinks becoming emblematic of a region's culinary heritage. Today, the enjoyment of a digestif is considered not just a means of aiding digestion but also as a ritual that enhances social interaction and concludes the dining experience.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,636, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.