Definition of whisky

The word "whisky" has its origins in the Gaelic language spoken in Scotland, where the spirit is traditionally produced. The word "uisge beatha," which translates to "water of life" in Gaelic, was used to describe the beverage by the Scots. As the Scottish whisky industry grew, English speakers commonly mispronounced the Gaelic word, leading to the use of the anglicized version, "whisky." The spelling of whisky with an "e" became standardized in the English-speaking world, although in some regions like Ireland, the spelling "whiskey" is used when the spirit is produced using a different distillation method. The exact origin of the term "whisky" outside of Scotland is unclear, but it's believed to have been spread by Scottish traders and immigrants in the 19th century as the spirit became more popular around the world. Despite its Scottish origins, whisky is now recognized as a global industry, with producers in countries like Japan, Canada, and the United States.