liqueur
UK: lɪˈkjʊə | US: lɪˈkɜːr
n. A strong, sweet alcoholic drink, often flavored with fruits, herbs, or spices, typically consumed in small quantities after a meal.
liqueur = liqu<liquid> + eur<noun suffix>
- liqu (from Latin liquere, meaning "to be liquid")
- eur (a French noun-forming suffix, indicating a substance or agent)
Etymology Origin:
The word liqueur traces back to the Latin liquor (liquid), derived from liquere (to flow or be fluid). It entered Old French as licur or liqueur, referring to liquids, especially distilled alcoholic ones. By the 18th century, it specialized to denote sweet, flavored spirits. The suffix -eur (akin to -or in English) solidifies its identity as a distinct category of beverage. The evolution reflects the refinement of alcoholic distillation techniques in medieval Europe.
She sipped a cherry liqueur after dinner.
The bartender crafted a cocktail with orange liqueur and gin.
Traditional French liqueurs often include herbs like thyme or lavender.
He gifted a bottle of artisanal coffee liqueur for the holidays.
The recipe calls for a splash of almond liqueur to enhance the flavor.