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decant

verb

/dɪˈkænt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of decant

To pour a liquid from one container into another, typically in a slow and controlled manner.
"He decided to decant the old port into a crystal carafe."

Detailed meaning of decant

It involves carefully separating the liquid from any sediment or impurities that may have settled at the bottom. Decanting is commonly done to transfer a liquid from a larger vessel to a smaller one, or to separate the liquid from any solid particles or residue. It is often used in the context of wine or spirits, where decanting allows for the separation of any sediment that may have formed during the aging process. By pouring the liquid slowly and smoothly into a new container, decanting helps to enhance the clarity and presentation of the liquid, ensuring a cleaner and more refined final product. Additionally, decanting can also refer to the act of pouring off the upper layer of a mixture, separating it from any heavier components that may have settled.

Example sentences containing decant

1. She will decant the wine before dinner.
2. We decant the liquid slowly to avoid disturbing the sediment.
3. If you decant the solution too quickly, it may become cloudy.
4. You should decant red wine to let it breathe and develop flavor.
5. When you decant a wine, it's best to do it gradually.
6. It's time to decant the juice into these smaller containers.

History and etymology of decant

The verb 'decant' traces its etymological origins to the Latin word 'decantare,' which is a combination of 'de' (meaning 'from') and 'cantare' (meaning 'to sing' or 'to chant'). Originally, 'decantare' referred to the act of pouring wine from one container into another while singing or chanting, often as part of a ceremonial or ritualistic process. This practice was believed to help separate the clear wine from any sediments or impurities. Over time, the term 'decant' transitioned into English and came to describe the act of pouring a liquid, such as wine or other beverages, from one vessel into another, typically in a slow and controlled manner. The etymology of 'decant' highlights its historical connection to the ritualistic or ceremonial aspects of wine handling, emphasizing the careful and deliberate pouring of liquids.

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Further usage examples of decant

1. She learned how to decant wines during her sommelier training.
2. The chemist had to decant the mixture into a series of test tubes for analysis.
3. They chose to decant the fragrance into smaller, ornate bottles.
4. The chef will decant the sauce to remove the herbs and spices.
5. Decant the aged whisky to experience its rich aroma and flavors.
6. The waiter suggested we decant the bottle for a more enjoyable taste.
7. To avoid oxidation, it's important to decant the reagent immediately.
8. The distillery uses a special process to decant the spirit into oak barrels.
9. After fermenting, it's crucial to decant the beer to remove unwanted sediment.
10. Before serving, decant the lemonade so that it’s free of pulp.
11. I watched as the master perfumer expertly decanted the essential oils.
12. The host decided to decant the wine into a beautiful antique decanter.
13. You must decant the chemicals slowly to ensure a safe and controlled reaction.
14. The sommelier expertly decanted the aged red wine into a crystal decanter.