Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris cover image

Words Unravelled with RobWords and Jess Zafarris

Which cocktail's name means "moist little thing"? | BOOZY WORDS

Nov 13, 2024
Get ready for a spirited conversation on the origins of your favorite drinks! Discover where 'beer' comes from and the amusing stories behind iconic cocktails like the Negroni. Ever wondered how many ways Brits describe being drunk? You'll be surprised! Plus, explore the fascinating roots of words like 'alcohol' and 'wormwood', blending history with humor. This lively discussion reveals how language and drinking culture intertwine, making for a fun and educational sip through etymology.
44:05

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Quick takeaways

  • The word 'alcohol' originated from Arabic, evolving through European alchemy to describe intoxicating beverages by the 1600s.
  • The discrepancy in the spellings of 'whiskey' and 'whisky' between Ireland and Scotland reflects national pride and cultural significance.

Deep dives

The Etymology of Alcohol

The word 'alcohol' has its roots in Arabic, where it originally referred to the sublimate and essence of minerals. Over time, the term was adopted into European alchemy to describe fine powders produced through distillation. The modern usage of 'alcohol' to refer to intoxicating beverages began in the 1600s, while prior references focused on 'spirits' of liquids. This evolution shows a fascinating blend of cultural words shaped by historical practices of distillation and fermentation.

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