# cordial

/ˈkɔɹdʒəɫ/ (US) · /kˈɔːdɪəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cordial
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. polite and friendly

adjective · CEFR B2 · Formal

friendly, but usually in a polite and formal way.

For teachers: characterised by a warm, genial, and polite manner, often in a professional or formal social context.

- The meeting between the two leaders was cordial and lasted for two hours.
- Despite their past disagreements, the two colleagues maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of the project's success.

Teaching tip: This word implies a level of professional distance; you wouldn't usually describe a best friend as 'cordial'.

### 2. fruit syrup

noun · CEFR B1 · British English

a sweet, concentrated fruit drink that you mix with water before drinking.

For teachers: a non-carbonated, concentrated fruit-flavoured syrup intended for dilution with water.

- On a hot day, a glass of lime cordial with ice is very refreshing.
- The children preferred the blackcurrant cordial diluted with sparkling water rather than the fresh orange juice provided.

Usage: Commonly used in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand; North Americans usually call this 'syrup' or 'squash'.

### 3. sweet liqueur

noun · CEFR C1 · American English · Formal

a strong, sweet alcoholic drink often served after a meal.

For teachers: a sweetened, aromatic alcoholic beverage, typically served in small quantities after a meal.

- After dinner, the host offered us a small glass of cherry cordial.
- The dessert menu featured a selection of fine cordials and aged brandies to accompany the cheese board.

Usage: In American English, this is often a synonym for liqueur.

### 4. invigorating

adjective · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Literary

something that makes you feel stronger or more cheerful.

For teachers: tending to revive, cheer, or invigorate the spirits.

- The news of their victory had a cordial effect on the tired troops.
- The physician recommended a cordial tonic to help the patient recover their strength after the long illness.

Teaching tip: This sense is rarely found in modern speech and is mostly encountered in 19th-century literature.

## Examples

- The two leaders had a cordial meeting today.
- Despite their past disagreements, the former business partners maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their employees.
- The atmosphere at the negotiation table remained cordial throughout the afternoon, though both parties were careful not to concede any significant ground before the final session.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.