French word

apéritif

Pronunciation

IPA/apeʁitif/

Meaning

  • masculine nounaperitif

Example

Nous prenons un apéritif avant le dîner.

We have an aperitif before dinner.

Illustration for apéritif (aperitif)

More examples

Elle a servi un apéritif sur la terrasse.

She served an aperitif on the terrace.

Core concept

A small drink before dinner that opens a relaxed space for conversation.

Common phrases

  • prendre un apéritif

    have an aperitif

  • boire un apéritif

    drink an aperitif

  • apéritif dinatoire

    cocktail dinner

Similar words

apéro: An informal pre-meal gathering for brief drinks and conversation.
boisson: Any liquid intended for drinking.
digestif: An alcoholic drink served after a meal to aid digestion.

Definition in French

Boisson servie avant un repas, souvent alcoolisée, destinée à ouvrir l'appétit et accompagner un moment convivial.

Word origin

French apéritif comes from Latin aperitivus, meaning 'opening', through Italian aperitivo, referring to something that opens the appetite.

Usage tips

  • The shortened form apéro can name either the drink or the pre-meal social gathering, depending on context.

Opposites

  • digestifdigestifnoun

Word lists with this word