Mead: meaning, definitions and examples
🍯
mead
[ mīd ]
alcoholic beverage
Mead is an alcoholic beverage created by fermenting honey with water, and often including various fruits, spices, grains, or hops. It is one of the oldest known alcoholic drinks, with a history that dates back thousands of years.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He enjoyed a glass of mead during the medieval feast.
- The honey-based mead was flavored with spices.
- They brewed their own mead at home.
- Mead has seen a resurgence in craft brewing.
Etymology
The term 'mead' has its origins in Old English 'medu', which is akin to the Latin 'mēlum' meaning honey, and the Greek 'mēlon', representing honey and sweetness. Mead has been produced in various cultures around the world, including ancient Egypt, Greece, and the Nordic countries. Historical texts and archeological findings suggest that it was consumed by the Celts, the Vikings, and even the ancient Chinese. It often held a social and ritual significance, being associated with celebrations, weddings, and gatherings. Over the centuries, mead has evolved, with different regions developing their unique styles and flavors, contributing to its diverse popularity today.