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aperitif

/əˌper.əˈtiːf/ French Origin Food & Drink

Original Word

apéritif

French

Entered English

19th century

First recorded usage in English

The Story Behind "aperitif"

From French 'apéritif', from Latin 'aperire' (to open), an alcoholic drink served before a meal to stimulate the appetite. The tradition is deeply rooted in French and Mediterranean culture, typically involving vermouth, pastis, or champagne.

Example Usage

"We started the evening with an aperitif on the terrace overlooking the sea."

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