A list of handy cocktail terms!

Cocktail lingo can be some of the most obstructive words in the drinking world. What's the difference between a measure and a part? What's an apertif and a digestif? Well not to worry: here's a list of really handy terms used most commonly in the cocktail world to refer to all things about cocktails.

Using this list you'll be able to talk the talk, even if you can barley walk the walk (because you've had too many cocktails).

A list of handy cocktail terms!

Aperitif: A refreshing drink typically served before a meal to stimulate the appetite.

Back: A non-alcoholic drink such as water or a soft drink served in a separate glass alongside an alcoholic drink.

Blue Law: Laws that restrict the sales of certain goods, particularly alcohol, on Sunday.
Build: To pour ingredients directly into the serving glass.

Call Drink: To request a brand name liquor when ordering a drink.

Cocktail: A drink that combines one or more alcoholic beverages.

Cordial or Liqueur: Sweet distilled spirits with a base liquor, sugar and a variety of fruits, herbs and spices for flavor that varies greatly by type or brand.

Dash: The smallest bar measurement.

Digestif: A drink served after dinner to complete a meal.

Dry: Refers to the quantity of vermouth in a cocktail.

Float: To carefully pour a small amount of liquid over the back of a spoon to balance as the top layer of a drink.

Libation: A beverage containing alcohol or the act of pouring a liquid in sacrifice.

Liquor or Distilled Spirit: A beverage distilled from alcohol.

Mixed Drink: A drink that combines one or more alcoholic beverages.

Mixer: Any non-alcoholic beverage used as an ingredient in a cocktail.

Mixology or Mixologist: The art or skill of preparing mixed drinks.

Muddle: Combining and mashing ingredients in the bottom of a glass using a muddler.

Neat: A drink served without ice or a mixer.

On the Rocks: Refers to a drink served over ice.

Parts: One part is any equal part.

Roll: Ingredients are poured from one glass into another and back again to mix.

Straight Up: A drink chilled in a cocktail shaker and strained.

Sweet and Sour Mix: A mixer of lemon, lime and sugar commonly used in mixing cocktails.