Scotch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scotch

[skɒtʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

drink

Scotch is a type of whisky that is made in Scotland. It is typically made from malted barley and aged in oak barrels for at least three years.

Synonyms

Scotch whiskey, Scotch whisky, whisky.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scotch

Use this term when referring to something related to Scotland or Scottish people. It is generally used in capitalized form.

  • The hotel serves a traditional Scotch breakfast.
  • His family has strong Scotch roots.
whisky

Use this spelling in a general sense to refer to the alcoholic beverage when talking about whisky produced in Scotland, Canada, and Japan.

  • Would you like some whisky with dinner?
  • His collection includes various types of whisky from around the world.
Scotch whisky

Use this term for whisky made in Scotland, particularly following the Scottish spelling convention without the 'e'.

  • He prefers Scotch whisky over other types of whisky.
  • We visited a distillery to learn how Scotch whisky is made.
Scotch whiskey

Use this term to refer specifically to whiskey made in Scotland when discussing beverages. This term is less commonly spelled this way.

  • He enjoys a glass of Scotch whiskey in the evening.
  • She gifted him a bottle of fine Scotch whiskey.

Examples of usage

  • He enjoys a glass of Scotch in the evening.
  • She prefers Scotch over other types of whisky.
Context #2 | Verb

adhere

To Scotch something means to prevent it from moving or slipping by using a small piece of material, usually adhesive tape.

Synonyms

fasten, fix, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scotch

Use when you want to describe a quick and temporary solution to prevent something from moving or continuing.

  • We scotched the door with a chair to keep it from closing.
  • He scotched the rumors before they could spread further.
secure

Best for describing actions taken to ensure safety, stability, or to prevent loss. Can refer to physical objects as well as abstract concepts like information.

  • The team secured the heavy equipment to the truck.
  • Make sure to secure your online account with a strong password.
fix

Used when you need to make something stable, repair or correct it. Often implies a permanent solution.

  • He fixed the broken chair with some glue and nails.
  • Can you fix the software bug by tomorrow?
fasten

Appropriate for situations where you need to attach or secure something in a way that it stays in place.

  • Please fasten your seatbelts before the flight takes off.
  • She fastened the necklace around her neck.

Examples of usage

  • She scotched the rug to keep it in place.
  • He scotched the wheels to stop the car from rolling.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Scotland, whisky plays a central role in social gatherings and is often enjoyed with friends and family.
  • There are strict regulations about what can be labeled as Scotch; it must be produced in Scotland and aged for a minimum of three years.

Production Process

  • The production of Scotch involves mashing, fermenting, distilling, and aging in wooden casks, each step contributing to its unique flavor.
  • Single malt Scotch is made from one type of grain at a single distillery, while blended Scotch combines different whiskies for a specific taste.

Varieties

  • Scotch can be broadly categorized into single malt, blended malt, blended grain, and single grain, each offering different flavors and aromas.
  • Regions in Scotland, such as Islay, Speyside, and the Highlands, produce distinctive styles of Scotch, reflecting their local grains and water sources.

Health and Nutrition

  • In moderation, some studies suggest that Scotch may have health benefits, including potential cardiovascular benefits due to its antioxidant properties.
  • However, excessive consumption can lead to health risks, emphasizing the importance of moderation.

Origin of 'scotch'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'Scotch' is derived from 'Scotia', which was a term used by the Romans to refer to Scotland.
  • Originally, the term was used to describe anything relating to Scotland, but it became specifically associated with whisky over time.

The word 'Scotch' originated in the late 16th century, originally as a noun to refer to a Gaelic-speaking person from Scotland. The term later evolved to refer to products from Scotland, such as Scotch whisky. The verb form of 'Scotch' meaning 'to prevent something from moving' is believed to have originated in the 19th century.