julep definition

1. A refreshing drink flavoured with aromatic herbs; especially.

<medicine> A sweet, demulcent, acidulous, or mucilaginous mixture, used as a vehicle. "Honey in woods, juleps in brooks." (H. Vaughan)

2. A beverage composed of brandy, whisky, or some other spirituous liquor, with sugar, pounded ice, and sprigs of mint.

Synonyms: mint julep.

Origin: F, fr. Sp. Julepe, fr. Ar. & Per. Julab, jullab, fr. Per. Gulab rose water and julep; gul rose + ab water.

(01 Mar 1998)