The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

aperitif

IPA:

Dictionary definition of aperitif

An alcoholic beverage typically served before a meal to stimulate the appetite.
"The waiter recommended a light citrus aperitif to whet our appetites."

Detailed meaning of aperitif

These drinks are usually light and dry, such as a glass of vermouth or a Campari and soda. Aperitifs can be served as a cocktail or a simple mixture of a spirit and a mixer. They are often enjoyed with a small snack or appetizer, and are meant to be sipped slowly. The word "aperitif" comes from the Latin word "aperire," which means "to open," referring to the way an aperitif is meant to open the appetite. They are popular in many cultures, and are often enjoyed as part of a leisurely dining experience.

Example sentences containing aperitif

1. Before the meal, we enjoyed a refreshing aperitif of sparkling wine.
2. The bartender prepared a classic martini as the perfect aperitif for the evening.
3. She ordered an Italian aperitif, Aperol Spritz, to start her dinner.
4. We gathered in the garden for an aperitif as the sun set.
5. A glass of dry sherry is often served as an aperitif in Spanish restaurants.
6. The host offered a variety of aperitifs to welcome guests to the party.

History and etymology of aperitif

The noun 'aperitif' has its etymological origins in French and Latin. It is derived from the French word 'apéritif,' which comes from the Latin verb 'aperire,' meaning 'to open.' In the context of dining and beverages, an 'aperitif' is a drink that is traditionally served before a meal with the purpose of 'opening' or stimulating the appetite. It is believed that such drinks, often containing herbs, spices, or bitters, help prepare the palate for the flavors of the upcoming meal. The concept of the 'aperitif' has been a longstanding tradition in European cultures, particularly in France and Italy, where it is considered a prelude to a delightful dining experience. The etymology of 'aperitif' underscores its historical connection to the idea of opening or stimulating the appetite, highlighting its role in enhancing the enjoyment of a meal.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun aperitif:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of aperitif

1. As an aperitif, they served a delightful assortment of cheese and olives.
2. The Mediterranean restaurant specializes in serving exotic aperitifs.
3. He savored his favorite French aperitif, Pastis, with a splash of water.
4. The aperitif menu featured a range of cocktails and mixed drinks.
5. The champagne served as an aperitif added a touch of elegance to the event.
6. She opted for a non-alcoholic aperitif, a refreshing fruit punch.
7. The aperitif was garnished with a slice of orange for a citrusy twist.
8. The bartender created a unique aperitif using local ingredients.
9. Aperitifs are meant to stimulate the appetite and prepare it for the main course.
10. We enjoyed a glass of chilled white wine as an aperitif on the warm summer evening.
11. The aperitif selection included classic options like Campari and Vermouth.
12. Aperitifs are a delightful way to start a meal and enhance the dining experience.
13. The aperitif reception allowed guests to mingle and enjoy light refreshments before the formal dinner.
14. At the elegant dinner party, guests enjoyed a crisp aperitif with hints of citrus.
15. He ordered a classic French aperitif, a glass of champagne, to start the evening.
16. The bartender crafted a unique aperitif using gin, vermouth, and botanicals.
17. Before their Italian feast, they sipped a delightful Aperol Spritz as an aperitif.
18. In Spain, it's customary to have a glass of sherry as an aperitif.
19. The herbal notes in the gin-based aperitif complemented the seafood appetizers.
20. She preferred a light, fruity aperitif before a hearty meal.
21. The tradition of sharing an aperitif before dinner is cherished in many cultures.
22. His signature aperitif cocktail featured a splash of elderflower liqueur.
23. A sparkling wine aperitif set the mood for the celebratory meal.
24. They gathered on the terrace, clinking glasses filled with aperitifs, to toast to friendship.