cognac

noun

co·​gnac ˈkōn-ˌyak How to pronounce cognac (audio)
also ˈkȯn-
or ˈkän-
variants often Cognac
: a brandy from the departments of Charente and Charente-Maritime distilled from white wine

Examples of cognac in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The Desert diamonds showcased at the trade show feature a range of tones, from sunlit whites and champagnes to deep brown cognac and whisky hues. Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 27 May 2026 These slingbacks feature a red knotted bungy-cord style strap and a cognac-colored sole and adjustable back. Tessa Petak, InStyle, 21 May 2026 Cocktails are as rich as the surroundings, like the Albertine, a sweet and punchy concoction laced with cognac and apricot syrup and topped with champagne. Ellie Seymour, TheWeek, 12 May 2026 The woven exterior adds texture to plain outfits, and the cognac color is simple to pair with spring and summer outfits. Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 9 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for cognac

Word History

Etymology

French, from Cognac, France

First Known Use

1751, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cognac was in 1751

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Cite this Entry

“Cognac.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cognac. Accessed 30 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

cognac

noun
co·​gnac ˈkōn-ˌyak How to pronounce cognac (audio)
often capitalized
: a French brandy
Etymology

named for Cognac, town in France in and near which it is made

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