Ale Meaning and Definition
Ale
Pronunciation
/eɪl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A fermented beverage made from fermented sugars, especially from malted barley and hops, typically with an alcohol content of 3.2% to 6.5%.
Examples
- She enjoyed a cold ale on a hot summer day.
- The microbrewery released a new seasonal ale, a hoppy IPA.
- Ale is a popular choice for many beer enthusiasts.
- The barmaid poured a pint of dark ale for the thirsty customer.
- Ale is often paired with rich, savory foods like cheese and meat.
Synonyms
- Beer
- Lager
- Pilsner
Antonyms
- Soda
- Wine
Etymology
The word “ale” originates from Old English “alh” or “ael”, which referred to a type of beer or fermented drink.
Usage Notes
In formal contexts, it’s often appropriate to use “beer” instead of “ale” to refer to any type of fermented drink.
Cultural References
Ale has been mentioned in various TV shows and movies, such as “The Office”, “Parks and Recreation”, and “The Simpsons”.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Fancy an ale: an invitation to have a drink with someone.
Related Words or Phrases
- Beer
- Lager
- Pilsner
- Cider
Collocations
- Ale and food
- Ale and friends
- Ale and a pie
Frequency of Use
Ale is a relatively common word in modern language, especially in informal settings.
Common Misspellings
- Ale is often misspelled as “Ale” or “Al” due to its common short form.