Pronunciation: [kˈiːvz] (IPA) 
The word "keeves" is a plural noun spelled with two "e's". It is pronounced /kiːvz/ with a long "e" sound as in "keep" and a "z" sound at the end. The word "keeves" refers to large vessels used for brewing, typically made of wood or stone. While it may not be a commonly used word, understanding its spelling can aid in communication and help expand vocabulary.
Keeves refer to a specialized type of container or vessel used in the process of cider or apple juice production. It is primarily employed in a traditional and labor-intensive fermentation process called Keeving, which is common in certain regions such as Normandy in France and Somerset in England.
A keeve is typically a large, wooden or stainless steel container with a tapered shape. Its purpose is to facilitate the unique and controlled fermentation process that produces specific types of cider and apple juice with distinctive flavor profiles. The keeve is specifically designed to allow the apple juice to ferment and clarify naturally.
During keeving, the apples are first crushed and the resulting juice is transferred into the keeve. The container is then sealed and left untouched for a certain period of time, often several days. As the fermentation process begins, a combination of factors, including temperature and the addition of specific enzymes, causes the juice to separate into different layers. The lighter juice, known as the "cider float," rises to the top while the heavier sediment settles at the bottom.
The keeve facilitates this separation process by allowing the sediment to collect at the tapered bottom section of the container, while the lighter juice remains at the top. After the desired fermentation and clarification have occurred, the keeve is carefully opened, and the resulting cider or apple juice can be extracted, often exhibiting a unique, naturally sweet taste.
In summary, a keeve is a container used in the traditional fermentation process called keeving, specialized for producing specific types of cider or apple juice with distinct characteristics.
The word "keeves" is derived from the Middle English word "kev", which is ultimately derived from the Old English word "ceofa". In Old English, "ceofa" referred to a brewing vessel or a large tub used in brewing. Over time, the word evolved to "kive" or "keeve", which continued to be used to describe a large vessel used in brewing or fermentation, especially for cider or beer. The term "keeves" is predominantly used in the context of cider making, referring to the fermentation vessels specifically designed to allow the controlled overflow of foam during fermentation.
