Definition of infusion

The word "infusion" originally comes from the Latin word "infundere," which translates to "to pour in" or "to pour into." In the 14th century, this Latin term was adopted by the Anglo-Norman French and transformed into the term "infusioun." The English word "infusion" was derived from this French term and initially referred to the process of pouring a liquid, such as boiling water, over a substance to extract its flavor or medicinal properties. This process is different from steeping, which involves soaking, as the hot liquid is poured directly onto the solid substance instead of the solid being placed in a container filled with the liquid. Infusion is still commonly used today, particularly in the context of preparing herbal teas, where the hot water is poured over dried herbs in order to extract their flavors and beneficial properties. It remains a versatile and popular method of preparing beverages and other liquid concoctions, from coffee substitutes to hair rinses and body scrubs.