Definition: Punch

An English word, from Hindi (a language of northern India) meaning "five", for a drink containing five main ingredients (alcohol, lemon, spices, sugar and water). This flavoured drink, made with rum or arrack, cane syrup and fruit juice (lemon), bitters, herbs, etc., is served hot. Ready-to-use preparations are available, but punch can also be prepared like a cocktail, according to a homemade recipe.