Definition of brew

The word "brew" has a rich history that dates back to Old English. The verb "brew" originally meant "to cook" or "to stew," and was often used to describe the process of cooking drinkable liquids, such as mead or ale. This sense of the word is still seen in modern English, as in "brew a cup of tea." Over time, the meaning of "brew" narrowed to specifically refer to the process of making beer. This sense of the word is thought to have originated in the 14th century, when ale was a staple of medieval life. Brewers would "brew" a mixture of grains, water, and yeast to create a fermented drink. Today, the word "brew" is used to describe not only the process of making beer, but also the act of preparing coffee or tea. Despite its evolution over the centuries, the core meaning of "brew" remains centered on the idea of transforming raw ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying drink.