# martini

/mɑɹˈtini/ (US) · /mɑːtˈiːni/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/martini
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a famous cocktail made by mixing gin or vodka with a special wine called vermouth. It is usually served very cold in a glass with a stem and decorated with an olive or a piece of lemon.

For teachers: a cocktail consisting of gin or vodka and dry vermouth, typically garnished with an olive or a lemon twist. Often specified as 'dry' when the proportion of vermouth is low.

## Examples

- He ordered a dry martini with an olive.
- The bartender stirred the martini gently to ensure it remained clear before pouring it into a chilled glass.
- While the classic martini recipe calls for gin, many modern drinkers prefer vodka, often debating whether the drink should be shaken or stirred to achieve the perfect temperature and texture.

## Usage notes

- Countable when referring to the drink itself; often used with the adjective 'dry' to indicate less vermouth.

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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.