cocktail

cock-tail · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An alcoholic drink made by mixing spirits with other ingredients.

  2. 2.

    Relating to cocktail parties or formal social events.

  3. 3.

    A mixture of different elements.

  4. 4.

    A small appetizer served at a party.

Forms

plural: cocktails

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    cocktail party — a social gathering with drinks and appetizers
  • •
    cocktail hour — time for pre-dinner drinks
  • •
    cocktail dress — semi-formal dress for evening events
  • •
    fruit cocktail — a mixture of chopped fruits
  • •
    Molotov cocktail — an improvised incendiary weapon

Related words

See also: bar, beverage, drink, martini
Synonyms: aperitif, mixed drink

Etymology

Origin uncertain, first appearing in early 19th century America. Possibly from "cock-tail" referring to a horse with a docked tail, or from French "coquetier" (egg cup).