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Liqueur: meaning, definitions and examples

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liqueur

 

[ lɪˈkɜːr ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

type of drink

A liqueur is a sweetened spirit, often flavored with fruits, herbs, nuts, or spices. Typically, it has a lower alcohol content than standard spirits since it is diluted with sugar and flavorings. Liqueurs are commonly enjoyed as after-dinner drinks and are popular ingredients in cocktails. They can also be used in cooking and baking to enhance flavors.

Synonyms

cordial, digestif, spirit

Examples of usage

  • The bartender served a sweet raspberry liqueur.
  • She added a splash of almond liqueur to the dessert.
  • Many cocktails include various liqueurs for depth of flavor.

Etymology

The word 'liqueur' comes from the Latin 'liquifacere', which means 'to dissolve' or 'to melt'. This etymology is fitting, as liqueurs are often made by infusing spirits with various ingredients to extract their flavors, resulting in a liquid form that is sweet and aromatic. The craft of making liqueurs can be traced back to the Middle Ages, where monks and herbalists would create concoctions for medicinal purposes, often distilling herbs and spices with alcohol. Over the centuries, these practices evolved, and by the Renaissance, liqueurs began to be produced for recreational consumption. The process of liqueur-making became an art in itself, with numerous regional variations emerging across Europe, which contributed to the diverse array of flavors we see today.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,355, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.