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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of bitters

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

Example Sentences

Staying on the topic of bitters, the Old Fashioned is yet another cocktail that’s a bit difficult to transform into an almost identical mocktail.

From Salon • Jan. 18, 2026

“There are places using bitters and different things to make a drink that tastes like an old-fashioned, and that is not what we are doing,” she said.

From Seattle Times • May 5, 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

If you want to make a nonalcoholic drink, simply add soda water, tonic and, if you like, a few dashes of Angostura bitters.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 10, 2023

Some chocolate had the bitters and you added sugar.

From "Life Is So Good" by George Dawson