Cocktail

Definition

Cocktail can refer to a mixed drink typically made with a combination of alcohol and other ingredients, such as fruit juice, soda, or syrups. It can also describe a combination of elements or substances used together. As an adjective, it refers to things associated with or suitable for cocktails or formal social events, such as "cocktail dress."

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːkˌteɪl/
• Respelling: KAHK-teyl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒkˌteɪl/
• Respelling: KOK-teyl

The pronunciation of "cocktail" differs slightly between American and British English, particularly in the vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "cocktail" first appeared in print in the early 19th century. Its origins are uncertain, but one theory suggests it comes from the French word "coquetier," meaning "egg cup," referring to how drinks were served in New Orleans. Another theory posits that it refers to a practice of stirring drinks with a cock’s feather. Over time, the word evolved to mean a mixed alcoholic beverage.

Derivatives

• Cocktail hour (noun)
• Cocktail party (noun)
• Cocktail shaker (noun)
• Cocktail dress (noun)
• Cocktail-making (noun)

Synonyms

• Mixed drink
• Beverage
• Mocktail (non-alcoholic version)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "cocktail" is commonly used in social and culinary contexts to describe alcoholic drinks mixed with ingredients such as spirits, fruit juices, or syrups. It is often associated with formal or casual gatherings, like cocktail parties. As an adjective, "cocktail" refers to things suitable for or associated with cocktails, such as "cocktail hour" or "cocktail dress." The term is also used metaphorically to describe a combination or mixture, such as a "cocktail of emotions" or a "cocktail of medicines."

Related Terms

• Mixology: The art or skill of preparing mixed drinks and cocktails.
• Mocktail: A non-alcoholic version of a cocktail.
• Liquor: A distilled alcoholic beverage used in cocktails.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An alcoholic drink made by mixing ingredients: Refers to a beverage made by combining spirits and other ingredients, such as soda, fruit juice, or syrups.
  • Example: "She ordered a fruity cocktail at the bar."
• A mixture of different elements: Describes a combination of various things that may or may not be related to beverages.
  • Example: "The speech was a cocktail of humor and inspiration."

Adjective

• Related to or suitable for cocktails or formal social events: Describes things typically associated with cocktail events, such as attire or social settings.
  • Example: "She wore an elegant cocktail dress to the party."