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Eggnog Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eggnog

[ˈɛɡnɒɡ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

beverage, holiday

Eggnog is a rich, creamy beverage traditionally made with milk, cream, sugar, whipped eggs, and spices, often flavored with nutmeg or vanilla. It is commonly associated with the Christmas holiday season in North America, where it is usually served chilled or at room temperature. Some variations of eggnog include alcohol, such as rum or bourbon, making it a popular festive drink.

Synonyms

holiday drink, milk punch.

Examples of usage

  • We enjoyed a glass of eggnog by the fireplace.
  • Eggnog is a staple at Christmas parties.
  • She made homemade eggnog for the holiday gathering.
  • Many people add a sprinkle of nutmeg on top of their eggnog.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In North America, eggnog is traditionally served during the Christmas season, often spiced with nutmeg or cinnamon.
  • Various cultures have their versions of eggnog; for example, 'rompope' in Mexico includes spices and rum.

Historical Origins

  • Eggnog has roots in medieval British possets, a warm drink made from milk, ale, and spices, consumed by nobility.
  • The modern recipe started to take shape in the 18th century when British colonists brought it to America.

Pop Culture

  • Eggnog often appears in films and songs about the holidays, reinforcing its association with festive cheer.
  • In 1940, the famous holiday cartoon 'The Night Before Christmas' featured a memorable moment with eggnog.

Nutrition

  • While tasty, eggnog is rich in calories and fat, primarily due to cream and milk, so it's a special treats.
  • Today, there are many low-calorie and dairy-free versions of eggnog available to suit different dietary preferences.

Origin of 'eggnog'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'eggnog' likely comes from 'noggin,' which refers to a small cup, and 'egg' because eggs are a key ingredient.
  • I'm going to talk about a drink that mixes eggs and milk, a concept that dates back to medieval times.

The origins of eggnog can be traced back to medieval Britain, where a warm drink called 'posset' was made with hot milk and ale or wine, often spiced and thickened with eggs. By the 16th century, the drink evolved into eggnog, combining eggs and milk with alcohol. The term 'nog' is believed to derive from 'noggin,' a wooden mug used to serve alcohol. As the recipe spread to the American colonies in the 18th century, eggnog became associated with celebrations and festive events, particularly during Christmas. The drink became particularly popular in the early 19th century, with many families passing down their own recipes, and it is still enjoyed today as a holiday tradition.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,013, 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.