WordGarden.iocider
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈaɪdə/
US
- /ˈsaɪdər/
Meanings
Noun
an alcoholic drink made by fermenting apple juice
a nonalcoholic apple juice drink, especially fresh or unfiltered
Beyond the definition
Cider is best known as an alcoholic beverage made from fermented apples—think crisp autumn days and cozy evenings. However, depending on where you are, it can also refer to non-alcoholic, unfiltered, fresh-pressed apple juice. The word "cider" comes from the Old French cidre, ultimately tracing back to a term meaning "strong drink." Historically, cider was incredibly popular in England and colonial America, sometimes even more so than beer. You might enjoy a warm mug of spiced cider on a chilly day or a crisp, dry, alcoholic cider paired with a delicious meal.
Cider is a drink made from the fermented juice of apples—though in certain regions, it can also simply be unfermented apple juice. This distinction is important! "Hard cider" contains alcohol, created through a fermentation process where yeast converts the natural sugars in the juice into ethanol. It is often carbonated and ranges in profile from bone-dry to syrupy-sweet, much like a sparkling apple wine.
In the United States and Canada, the term "cider" frequently refers to fresh-pressed, unfiltered, non-alcoholic apple juice. This version is a seasonal staple, usually enjoyed chilled or simmered with spices like cinnamon and cloves for fall festivals and holiday gatherings. Conversely, in the UK and much of Europe, "cider" almost exclusively implies an alcoholic beverage.
The context of usage usually reveals which version is being discussed. A pub menu will feature hard ciders, while a roadside orchard stand will likely sell gallons of sweet, cloudy cider. The term even extends beyond apples: pear cider (known as poiré in France or perry in England) is also a traditional favorite. Whether you are craving a bubbly alcoholic treat or a comforting autumn staple, cider offers a delightful taste of the orchard in every sip.
Examples
- 1
Drinks
She poured us each a glass of cider.
- 2
Autumn market
They sell hot cider at the market every autumn.
- 3
Cooking
The sauce is made with cider, onions, and a little mustard.
- 4
Alcoholic cider
He brought a bottle of hard cider to the barbecue.
- Usagehard cider
cider with alcohol, especially in American English
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Celebration drink
We gave the children sparkling cider for the toast.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- cidernoun
Forms
- ciderspluralnoun