The word "liqueur" (/'lɪkər/) is spelled with "-queur" at the end instead of the more common "-ker" due to its original French spelling. This word refers to a type of alcoholic beverage that typically contains a mixture of distilled spirits, fruit, herbs, and spices. Pronounced as "lick-er," it is commonly used as an after-dinner drink or in cocktail recipes. It is important to spell this word correctly, as misspelling it as "liquor" (/'lɪkər/) can change its meaning entirely.
A liqueur is a type of alcoholic beverage that is characterized by its sweet and often flavored nature. It is commonly consumed after a meal as a digestif or used as an ingredient in cocktails and desserts. Liqueurs are typically made by combining distilled spirits, such as vodka, brandy, or rum, with various flavoring agents, such as fruits, herbs, spices, and sometimes even nuts or flowers. The addition of sugar or syrup is also common, resulting in a distinct sweetness and viscosity.
Liqueurs vary significantly in terms of their flavors and aromas, which can range from fruity and citrusy to herbal and spicy. Some popular examples include citrus liqueurs like Cointreau, chocolate-based liqueurs like Baileys Irish Cream, and herbal liqueurs like Chartreuse. Due to their diverse range of flavors, many liqueurs are enjoyed neat or on the rocks as a standalone drink, allowing the complex flavors to be savored.
Liqueurs are often lower in alcoholic content compared to spirits, with percentages typically ranging from 15% to 55% alcohol by volume (ABV), although exceptions exist. The distinct flavors and sweetness of liqueurs make them a versatile ingredient in mixology, where they can be used to add depth, complexity, and a touch of sweetness to cocktails. Overall, liqueurs offer a sensory experience that combines the indulgence of sweetness and the richness of spirits, making them a popular option for those seeking a flavorful and enjoyable drinking experience.
A cordial; a spirit containing sugar and aromatics.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A compound of water, alcohol, and sugar, flavoured with some aromatic extract; a cordial; a name given to a great variety of foreign compounded spirits.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "liqueur" comes from the French word "liqueur" which means "a type of strong alcoholic drink", derived from the Latin term "liquor" meaning "a liquid". The Latin term "liquor" is related to the verb "liquēre", meaning "to be fluid" or "to be liquid". Thus, the word "liqueur" ultimately refers to a liquid substance, specifically a strong alcoholic beverage.