Absinthe
/ˈæb.sɪnθ/noun
A potent green alcoholic spirit flavored primarily with wormwood, anise, and fennel.
Did you know?Absinthe’s nickname, “the Green Fairy,” helped transform a bitter wormwood spirit into a symbol of bohemian rebellion, artistic inspiration, and intoxicating enchantment.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἀψίνθιον (apsínthion)
“The name of wormwood; its deeper origin is uncertain.”
Late Antiquity
Latin
absinthium
“Wormwood, especially the intensely bitter medicinal herb.”
Old French
Old French
absinthe
“Wormwood; the word retained the classical Latin plant name.”
16th–17th Century
French
absinthe
“Wormwood and preparations flavored with it.”
19th Century
French
absinthe
“A distilled alcoholic drink made with wormwood and other botanicals.”
Modern English
English
absinthe
“A strong, traditionally green spirit associated with the “Green Fairy” and Belle Époque bohemian culture.”
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