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Pastis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pastis

[pรฆsหˆtiห ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

alcoholic beverage

Pastis is an anise-flavored spirit and apรฉritif, produced in France. It is typically diluted with water before consumption, which causes it to turn a milky white color. Pastis is usually enjoyed as a refreshing drink, particularly in warm weather.

Synonyms

absinthe, anise liqueur.

Examples of usage

  • I ordered a pastis to sip on the terrace.
  • The bartender recommended a pastis with a splash of water.
  • After a long day, nothing beats a cold pastis.
  • She loves to enjoy her pastis while watching the sunset.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In French culture, pastis is traditionally enjoyed as an aperitif, a drink before a meal meant to stimulate the appetite.
  • Summer gatherings often feature pastis, as it is refreshing when diluted with cold water and served over ice.

Production

  • Pastis is typically made from star anise, liquorice, and other herbs and spices, creating its distinctive flavor profile.
  • Many French brands produce pastis, with different recipes leading to variations in taste and aroma.

Social Aspects

  • In France, drinking pastis is often paired with social activities, where friends gather to chat and enjoy each other's company.
  • Itโ€™s customary to drink pastis slowly, savoring the flavors and the moments spent with others.

Health and Nutrition

  • While pastis contains alcohol, it's often enjoyed in moderation, emphasizing the social aspect rather than excessive consumption.
  • The anise flavor can have digestive benefits, which ties into its use as an aperitif to prepare for a meal.

Origin of 'pastis'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pastis' comes from the Provenรงal word meaning 'mixture', reflecting how it's made by mixing different ingredients.
  • It was first commonly produced in the 19th century in France, with its popularity rising after the ban of absinthe in 1915.

The term 'pastis' originates from the Provenรงal word 'pastis', which means 'dough' or 'mix'. This refers to the mixing of various herbs and spices to create the distinct flavor of the drink. The beverage became popular in the southern regions of France in the 19th century as a substitute for absinthe, especially after absinthe was banned in France in 1915. The production of pastis grew significantly in the early 20th century, with brands like Ricard and Pernod becoming synonymous with the drink. Pastis is often served in a glass with cold water, and the traditional preparation involves adding a few parts water to one part pastis, which results in a unique transformation of the beverage's appearance and flavor.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,969, 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.