A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Ouzo
Pronounced OO-zoh, this anise-flavored Greek liqueur is a staple at tavernas and bars worldwide.
ouzo
OO-zoh
/ˈu.zoʊ/ · oo · zoh
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's often enjoyed neat or with ice and water, which turns it cloudy.
Where the word comes from
The word 'ouzo' is believed to have originated from the Turkish word 'üzüm', meaning 'grape'. It likely refers to the grape-based spirit from which ouzo is distilled.
Common ways people get it wrong
- OW-zoh Some might pronounce the 'ou' like in 'ouch', but it's a simple 'oo' sound like in 'food'.
- OO-zuh The final syllable is a long 'oh' sound, not a short 'uh'.
Frequently asked
What is ouzo made from?
Ouzo is a distilled spirit made primarily from grapes, flavored with anise and other herbs like fennel, coriander, and cinnamon.
How do you drink ouzo?
It's typically served with ice and a small amount of water. Adding water causes the clear spirit to turn a milky white, a phenomenon called the 'ouzo effect'.
Is ouzo sweet?
Ouzo has a distinct sweetness, largely due to the anise and other flavorings, but it's a spirit with a significant alcohol content.
