Showing results for "bitters"

• plural of bitter.

bitters

American  

[bit-erz] / ˈbɪt ərz /

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. a liquid, often an alcoholic liquor, in which bitter herbs or roots have steeped, used as a flavoring, especially in mixed drinks, or as a tonic.

2. Pharmacology.

   1. a liquid, usually alcoholic, impregnated with a bitter medicine, as gentian or quassia, used to increase the appetite or as a tonic.

   2. bitter medicinal substances in general, as quinine.

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bitters British  

/ ˈbɪtəz /

plural noun

1. bitter-tasting spirits of varying alcoholic content flavoured with plant extracts

2. a similar liquid containing a bitter-tasting substance, used as a tonic to stimulate the appetite or improve digestion

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Etymology

Origin of bitters

First recorded in 1705–15; bitter + -s ³

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

bitters

The group said it is also looking to cultural partnerships and activation in the on-premise scene, a strategy that has been central to above-industry growth at smaller peer Campari, maker of bitters Aperol.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 27, 2026

The group behind Aperol and Campari bitters recorded 2.5% organic sales growth in the quarter through June, with its core aperitifs business booking 4% growth.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 30, 2026

You can even embrace your inner mixologist by investing in a few non-alcoholic bitters.

From Seattle Times ● Jun. 4, 2024

They also offer rosé and a crisp Sauvignon Blanc by the glass, but the frozen concoction with bitters was the perfect antidote for Coachella’s striking afternoon sun.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 16, 2024

Shuttled from one specialist to the next, the girl had been prescribed to shun garlic, consume disproportionate quantities of bitters, meditate, drink green coconut water, and swallow raw duck’s eggs beaten in milk.

From "Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumpa Lahiri