liquor
UK: ˈlɪkə | US: ˈlɪkɚ
n. an alcoholic drink, especially distilled spirits
n. (archaic) any liquid, such as broth or juice
liquor = liqu<liquid> + or<noun suffix>
- liqu (from Latin liquere, meaning "to be fluid or liquid")
- or (a noun-forming suffix in Latin, often indicating an agent or result)
Etymology Origin:
The word "liquor" traces back to Latin liquor (meaning "fluid" or "liquid"), derived from liquere ("to flow"). Initially, it referred broadly to any liquid, including water or broth. Over time, its meaning narrowed to specifically denote alcoholic beverages, particularly distilled spirits, reflecting the cultural and industrial focus on alcohol production in medieval Europe. The shift highlights how language adapts to societal priorities.
He ordered a glass of fine liquor at the bar.
In medieval recipes, "liquor" often referred to cooking broth.
The distillery produces premium liquor from local grains.
She avoids hard liquor but enjoys an occasional wine.
The pharmacist prepared a medicinal liquor from herbs.