mint julep

American  

noun

1. an alcoholic drink traditionally made with bourbon, sugar, and finely cracked ice and garnished with sprigs of mint, served in a tall, frosted glass: also made with other kinds of whiskey, brandy, and sometimes rum.

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mint julep British  

noun

1. a long drink consisting of bourbon whiskey, crushed ice, sugar, and sprigs of mint

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Etymology

Origin of mint julep

An Americanism dating back to 1800–10

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

mint julep

That evening I attempted the arguably more difficult task of drinking a mint julep while lying on the floor, feet elevated so as not to disturb the blisters.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 14, 2026

This makes sense, as a mint julep is typically made by combining bourbon, mint and a simple sugar syrup over ice.

From Salon ● May 7, 2022

Eric Greenspan prepares lobster rolls, Maneet Chauhan serves a Southern-belle mint julep, Christian Petroni makes teriyaki meatloaf and Justin Warner fries fajita chimichangas.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 18, 2021

Second place receives an official 1983 Kentucky Derby souvenir mint julep glass, donated by Loser Steve Smith.

From Washington Post ● Sep. 3, 2020

"Now see here, Tom," said Daisy, turning around from the mirror, "if you're going to make personal remarks I won't stay here a minute. Call up and order some ice for the mint julep."

From " The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald