Definition of ale

The word "ale" has its origins in Old English and Old Norse. In Old English, "ale" is derived from the word "Ale", which referred to a type of beer made from fermented grains. The spelling and pronunciation evolved over time, and by the 14th century, "ale" was used to describe a broad range of fermented beverages, including beers and other malt liquors. In Old Norse, a similar word "ál" or "öl" was used to describe a fermented drink made from barley or wheat. The word was borrowed into Middle English as "ale", and has since become a common term for a variety of beers, ales, and other fermented drinks. Today, "ale" is often used to describe a specific type of beer characterized by its hoppy flavor and bitterness.