Definition

Noun: A sweet liqueur, typically made from wine and brandy, flavored with the kernels of stone fruits (such as plum, peach, or apricot) and bitter almonds.

Usage

Ratafee (also spelled ratafia) is a specific type of cordial or liqueur. It is used as a noun to refer to the beverage itself. - The host offered a glass of ratafee as a digestif after the meal. - Traditional ratafee recipes often include fruit kernels for a distinct almond-like flavor.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Culinary Context: The term is often found in historical texts, old recipes, or discussions of traditional liqueurs and cordials. It is not a common term for modern commercial spirits.
  • The 18th-century cookbook contained a recipe for homemade ratafee.

Variants and Related Words

• Ratafia (n): An alternative spelling for , with identical meaning.
  • Ratafia is sometimes used as a flavoring in desserts.

Synonyms

• Cordial: A sweet, flavored, often alcoholic drink.
• Liqueur: A strong, sweet alcoholic spirit flavored with fruit, herbs, or spices.

Notes on Meaning

This word refers specifically to a flavored alcoholic beverage. It is a highly specific term and is not commonly used in everyday modern English outside of historical or specialized culinary contexts.

Noun

1. sweet liqueur made from wine and brandy flavored with plum or peach or apricot kernels and bitter almonds