margarita
UK[ˌmɑːɡəˈriːtə]US[ˌmɑːrɡəˈriːtə]
n
a cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and an orange-flavored liqueur, typically served in a glass with a salted rim.
n
a spanish word for the daisy flower.
Etymology
the word 'margarita' entered english directly from spanish, where it means 'daisy' or 'pearl'. the spanish term itself derives from the latin 'margarita', meaning 'pearl', which was borrowed from ancient greek 'μαργαρίτης' (margarítēs), also meaning 'pearl'. the cocktail's name is popularly attributed to various mid-20th century figures named margarita, with the drink's salt rim sometimes playfully compared to the luster of a pearl or the petals of a daisy. thus, the word's journey from a classical term for a precious gem to a modern beverage name illustrates a process of cultural borrowing and associative naming.
Analysis
the word is a loanword from spanish, functioning as a proper noun that became a common noun. it is not productively segmented in english.
Examples
she ordered a frozen margarita with extra salt on the rim.
the classic margarita recipe calls for tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice.
his garden was full of colorful margaritas, also known as daisies.