Definition & Meaning of "absinthe"

What is "absinthe"?

Absinthe is a highly alcoholic spirit that is known for its green color and strong anise flavor. It is made by distilling a combination of herbs and botanicals, including grand wormwood, anise, and fennel. The drink is typically diluted with water before serving, which causes it to turn cloudy and milky in appearance. Absinthe gained a notorious reputation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it was associated with bohemian and artistic circles, and was even banned in some countries due to concerns about its hallucinogenic properties. However, modern absinthe is typically much lower in thujone, the chemical compound that was believed to cause its psychoactive effects, and is legal in many countries around the world. Absinthe is often consumed as a part of a traditional French or Swiss aperitif, and is also used as a flavoring agent in cocktails such as the Sazerac and the Corpse Reviver.