French word

vinaigre

Pronunciation

IPA/vinɛgʁ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounvinegar

Example

Ajoute un peu de vinaigre.

Add a little vinegar.

Illustration for vinaigre (vinegar)

More examples

On utilise souvent du vinaigre blanc pour nettoyer.

White vinegar is often used to clean.

Core concept

A sour liquid made from fermented drink, used to brighten food or slow its spoilage.

Common phrases

  • vinaigre blanc

    white vinegar

  • vinaigre de table

    table vinegar

  • vinaigre de riz

    rice vinegar

Similar words

citron: A small yellow citrus fruit used to give food and drinks a sour flavor.
sel: A white crystalline seasoning used to enhance the flavor of food.
huile: A plant- or seed-based liquid seasoning used for frying and dressings.
vinaigre blanc: A clear, strongly acidic type of vinegar also used for cleaning and removing odors.

Definition in French

Condiment acide dérivé souvent du vin ou d'autres boissons fermentées, utilisé pour relever le goût des plats ou pour leur conservation.

Word origin

The word is a compound of Old French vin, 'wine', and aigre, 'sour'; it originally named wine that had become acidic.

Usage tips

  • Varieties are commonly named with de, as in vinaigre de cidre for cider vinegar.

Related words

  • vinaigrettevinaigrettenoun
  • vinaigreruse vinegarverb

Word lists with this word