vodka
n. C / Un. a strong, clear alcoholic drink that is usually made from grain or potatoes. It does not have a strong smell or taste, so people often mix it with juice or soda.
n. a clear, distilled alcoholic spirit of Russian and Polish origin, typically produced from fermented grains or potatoes. It is generally filtered to achieve a neutral flavour profile and high ethanol concentration.
He ordered a vodka and orange juice at the bar.
The bartender explained that high-quality vodka should be served very cold to highlight its smooth texture.
While traditionally consumed neat in Eastern Europe, vodka has become the versatile foundation for countless international cocktails due to its lack of distinct aroma and colour.
Borrowed from Russian во́дка (vódka), from вода́ (vodá, “water”) + -ка (-ka, “-let: forming diminutives”). The archaic Russian name for vodka was хле́бное вино́ (xlébnoje vinó, “grain wine”); V. Pokhlyobkin's research suggests the present name derived from expressions concerning the dilution of the initial pure distilled spirit such as "vodka of grain wine". Cognates include Sanskrit उदक (udaka), Ancient Greek ὕδωρ (húdōr) → English hydro-, English whisky and English water.
Uncountable when referring to the liquid in general; countable when ordering a single serving or referring to different brands.