merlot
UK[ˈmɜːləʊ]US[mərˈloʊ]
n
A type of red wine made from dark blue grapes
n
The variety of grape used to make this wine
Etymology
The word 'merlot' is a direct borrowing from the French name for the grape variety. In French, 'merlot' is a diminutive form of 'merle', meaning 'blackbird', likely referring to the grape's dark blue-black color which resembles the bird's plumage. The name thus follows a common pattern of naming grape varieties after visual characteristics, transferring the concrete image of a blackbird to the abstract concept of a specific wine varietal. This term entered English in the 19th century alongside the increased importation and appreciation of French wines.
Analysis
This word is a loanword from French. It does not contain separable morphemes within its modern English spelling.
Examples
This rich, fruity merlot pairs well with grilled meats.
The vineyard decided to plant more merlot this season.
She prefers a smooth merlot over a more tannic cabernet sauvignon.