Pronunciation: [mˈʌdləz] (IPA) 
The word "muddlers" is spelled with two D's, despite the phonetic sound being "muhl-ers." This is because the word is derived from "muddle," which also contains two D's. In English, when adding suffixes such as "-er" to a word, the spelling of the base word is typically preserved. Additionally, the double D's in "muddle" help to distinguish it from words like "mule" or "muse" which also contain the "uhl" sound.
Muddlers, in the context of bartending and mixology, refer to a specific type of tool used to mix or muddle ingredients in cocktails. A muddler is typically a handheld utensil, resembling a short pestle, with a blunt or textured bottom. It is commonly made of wood, stainless steel, or other materials that are resistant to corrosion and have a long lifespan.
The purpose of a muddler is to extract the flavors, aromas, and essential oils from certain ingredients, such as fruits, herbs, or sugar cubes, through the process of muddling. To muddle means to gently crush or press the ingredients against the bottom of a glass or cocktail shaker to release their flavors and incorporate them into the drink. Muddlers are especially useful for making cocktails like mojitos, old fashioneds, or caipirinhas, where fresh ingredients need to be thoroughly mixed and infused.
The wide, blunt, or textured bottom of a muddler helps break down the cellular structure of the ingredients without completely pulverizing them, allowing for maximum extraction of flavors. Some muddlers also feature a slim, tapering top, suitable for stirring and layering other ingredients.
The muddler has become an essential tool of the trade in many bars and home cocktail enthusiasts' collections, ensuring the successful preparation of flavorful and well-mixed cocktails that highlight the natural essence of fresh ingredients.
The word "muddlers" is derived from the verb "muddle", which originated in the late 16th century. The term "muddle" initially meant to mix or mingle things together in a confused or disordered manner. Over time, the term evolved to also encompass the act of confusing or jumbling one's thoughts or actions.
The noun form "muddler" emerged from this verb, referring to a person or tool used to mix or crush ingredients to create a muddled or mixed drink. A muddler is commonly used in the preparation of cocktails, particularly those that contain ingredients like fruits, herbs, or sugar that need crushing or mashing to release their flavors.
Therefore, "muddlers" specifically refers to the plural form of muddler, denoting multiple individuals or various tools used for the purpose of muddling ingredients in cocktail making.
