What does vermouth mean?
Vermouth is a fortified wine that is flavored with botanicals such as herbs, spices, roots, and citrus peel, and it may also contain sugar. It is generally served chilled as an aperitif, especially in southern Europe, but it is also an important ingredient in cocktails such as the martini. Dry vermouth is typically less sweet and more herbaceous, while sweet vermouth is richer and more dessert-like. The word comes through French from German Wermut, a term associated with wormwood; wormwood was historically important in the drink's development, although modern vermouth does not necessarily contain it. Knowing vermouth is useful because it names both a distinctive wine and a foundational flavoring in mixed drinks. Its combination of wine, alcohol, sugar, and botanical aroma gives it a role unlike ordinary table wine or spirits.
nounA typically fortified wine flavored and aromatized with herbs, spices, roots, and often sugar. Vermouth is commonly served as an aperitif or used as an ingredient in cocktails.
- A typically fortified wine flavored with herbs, spices, roots, and often sugar, used as a drink or cocktail ingredient.
"She added a splash of dry vermouth to the martini."
"The bartender stirred gin with a little dry vermouth and cracked ice into the glass."
"A chilled glass of sweet vermouth was served before dinner."
Vermouth is usually treated as a mass noun; the plural is uncommon but can refer to individual servings or distinct varieties.
"The restaurant offers several vermouths from different European producers."
Vermouth keeps a botanical trace of its name: it comes through French from German Wermut, a word associated with wormwood, the plant once central to the drink's identity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does vermouth come from?
English borrowed the word through French vermut, from German Wermut. German Wermut is associated with Old High German wermuot, meaning “wormwood,” and the name was extended to aromatic wines and liqueurs. The plant's historical association with wormwood accounts for the connection between the modern drink and the word's botanical origin.
How vermouth is actually used
The term is neutral in register and is common in both British and American English. It usually refers to a mass beverage, although individual servings or varieties may be counted as “vermouths.”
Easily confused with vermouth
Varmint means vermin or an annoying animal, while vermouth is a fortified, aromatized wine.