schnapps
UK[ʃnæps]US[ʃnæps]
n
a strong alcoholic drink made from grain or potatoes, especially in germany and the netherlands.
Etymology
the english word 'schnapps' is a direct borrowing from the german 'schnaps', which itself derives from the low german 'snaps', meaning 'a gulp' or 'a mouthful'. this term is related to the german verb 'schnappen', meaning 'to snap' or 'to seize', likely evoking the quick, sharp action of swallowing a strong spirit. the drink's name, therefore, originates not from its ingredients but from the characteristic manner of its consumption. entering english in the early 19th century, it retains its specific reference to clear, strong spirits from central and northern europe.
Analysis
the word is a loanword from german. it is not productively segmented into meaningful morphemes in english.
Examples
he offered me a glass of homemade pear schnapps after dinner.
the region is famous for its variety of fruit schnapps.
we toasted with a shot of icy schnapps.