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Ouzo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ouzo

[ˈuːzoʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

beverage

Ouzo is a traditional Greek anise-flavored aperitif that is commonly consumed in Greece and Cyprus. It is made from distilling fermented grapes and is flavored with anise, which gives it a distinct licorice taste. Ouzo is typically served chilled or over ice and is often accompanied by meze, a selection of small dishes. It is an integral part of Greek culture and is enjoyed during social gatherings and celebrations.

Synonyms

Greek aperitif, anise liqueur, spirit.

Examples of usage

  • We enjoyed a glass of ouzo with our meze.
  • The ouzo flowed freely during the Greek festival.
  • After dinner, they offered us ouzo as a digestif.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Often referred to as the 'national drink of Greece,' ouzo plays an important role in Greek social gatherings and celebrations.
  • In Greek tradition, it is customary to enjoy ouzo with small plates of food, enhancing the flavors and making it a shared experience.
  • Ouzo has inspired various festivals and events in Greece, highlighting regional variations and local distilleries.

Production Process

  • The drink is made by distilling grape pomace along with anise seeds, resulting in its unique flavor profile.
  • It typically undergoes a secondary distillation, allowing for the extraction of the aromatic compounds that give ouzo its signature taste.
  • Some producers incorporate local herbs and spices, adding further complexity to the flavor of the drink.

Legal Regulations

  • Ouzo is protected under European law as a product of geographical indication, meaning it must be produced in specific regions of Greece.
  • There are strict guidelines regarding the alcohol content, which must be between 37.5% and 50% for an authentic ouzo.
  • Each distillery must adhere to traditional methods of production to maintain the drink's quality and cultural heritage.

Health and Safety

  • Moderation is key when consuming ouzo, as its high alcohol content can lead to increased intoxication.
  • Anise, the main flavoring in ouzo, has been traditionally believed to aid digestion and provide various health benefits when consumed responsibly.
  • The drink is best enjoyed chilled or mixed with water, which turns it cloudy, enhancing the drinking experience.

Origin of 'ouzo'

Main points about word origin

  • The name comes from a Greek term referring to distilled spirits, likely influenced by the Italian word 'uso,' meaning 'usage' or 'use.'
  • Ouzo originated in Greece around the 14th century, showing the long history of the drink in Mediterranean culture.
  • In the 19th century, it gained popularity as a national spirit in Greece, often consumed alongside meze (snacks).

The word 'ouzo' is thought to have originated from the Turkish word 'üzüm', which means 'grape', reflecting its wine distillation background. Ouzo has a long history, dating back to the 14th century when monks on the Greek island of Lesbos began producing this anise-flavored spirit. It became increasingly popular in the 19th century, particularly after the establishment of Greece as an independent state. The production of ouzo is now regulated by the Greek government, and it must contain at least 20% alcohol by volume and be flavored predominantly with anise. The spirit is deeply rooted in the social fabric of Greek life, often served in small glasses as part of a ritual of hospitality, embodying various cultural traditions and customs. Its popularity has spread beyond Greece, making it a beloved beverage in many countries with Greek communities.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,332, 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.