claret

[ klar-it ]

noun

1. the red table wine produced in the Bordeaux region of France: originally it was light red or yellowish.
2. a similar wine made elsewhere.
3. Also called claret red. a deep purplish red.
4. Slang. blood.

adjective

1. deep purplish-red.

claret

/ ˈklærət /

noun

1. a red wine, esp one from the Bordeaux district of France
2. 1. a purplish-red colour
   2. ( as adjective )

      a claret carpet

Word History and Origins

Origin of claret¹

1350–1400; Middle English < Anglo-French, Middle French claret, cleret, alteration, by suffix substitution, of Old French claré wine mixed with honey and herbs or spices < Medieval Latin clarātum, equivalent to Latin clār ( us ) clear + -ātus -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of claret¹

C14: from Old French ( vin ) claret clear (wine), from Medieval Latin clārātum, from clārāre to make clear, from Latin clārus clear

Example Sentences

Enhancing the eerie mood, the venue was bathed in blood-red lights throughout the concert, with Florence in a flowing claret dress, her sleeves swaying in time to the music.

From BBC

Schauffele went from the heaviest major trophy at the PGA Championship to the smallest and oldest, the famed claret jug that he will keep for a year.

From Los Angeles Times

Initially called clairet, it became known as claret and scored its first international success, becoming the most consumed wine in Britain until the 19th century.

From Salon

Peta, which says real fur is cruel and unnecessary, said it would be "toasting Queen Camilla with a glass of the finest claret".

From BBC

The new claret and blue home shirts are the worst affected, noticeably changing colour in games as they retain moisture and cling tightly to the chest.

From BBC

Related Words

• cardinal
• coral
• crimson
• flaming
• glowing
• maroon
• rose
• wine