beverage

American  

[bev-er-ij, bev-rij] / ˈbɛv ər ɪdʒ, ˈbɛv rɪdʒ /

noun

1. any potable liquid, especially one other than water, as tea, coffee, beer, or milk.

   The price of the meal includes a beverage.

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beverage British  

/ ˈbɛvərɪdʒ, ˈbɛvrɪdʒ /

noun

1. any drink, usually other than water

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Etymology

Origin of beverage

1250–1300; Middle English < Anglo-French beverage, bevarage, equivalent to be ( i ) vre to drink + -age -age

Explanation

A beverage is any type of drink. It's something you might offer a guest in your house; it's also the favorite moniker of companies that manufacture both soda and juice — they call themselves beverage companies. One of the most popular beverages in history is Coca-Cola, developed in 1886. Initially, Coke was called a brain tonic for intellectuals. Ingredients of the original recipe included coca leaves and cola nuts, and until 1909 contained small amounts of cocaine. Today, the Coca Cola company markets hundreds of beverages including soft drinks, juices, and sports drinks.

Example Sentences

While other companies have called out pressures on discretionary spending, food and beverage was one of Block’s strongest verticals in the first quarter, Ahuja said.

From MarketWatch • May 7, 2026

Delta is adding full snack and beverage service for Delta Comfort and Delta Main passengers on flights of 350 miles or more.

From Salon • May 7, 2026

There will be international food vendors, beverage areas, live music, DJs, cultural performances and additional family-friendly programming.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 2026

That’s much cheaper than most food and beverage peers.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

Everyone ignores me except for some Capitol attendant who appears behind me and offers me a beverage.

From "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins

Related Words

• drink
• liquor