rum

Definition

A distilled spirit derived from fermented cane sugar and molasses.

Etymology

In common use since by at least 1654, of uncertain origin. Theories include: * that it derives from rum (“fine, good”), or from the last syllable of Latin saccharum (given the harsh taste of earlier rum, the first theory is now considered unlikely), * that it is a shortening of rumbullion or rumbustion, or * that it is from a Romani word for "strong, potent" which is (perhaps) the source of ramboozle and rumfustian (but these drinks were not originally made with rum) * that it derives from rummer, from Dutch roemer

Example Sentences

• "The Royal Navy used to issue a rum ration to sailors."
• "Jake tossed down three rums."
• "Bundaberg is one of my favourite rums."