julep

noun

ju·​lep ˈjü-ləp How to pronounce julep (audio)
1
: a drink consisting of a liquor (such as bourbon or brandy) and sugar poured over crushed ice and garnished with mint
2
: a drink consisting of sweet syrup, flavoring, and water

Examples of julep in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Mint juleps will always be a classic Southern drink for spring and summer, and this vintage-style julep cup can be used for much more than cocktails. Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 10 May 2026 Churchill Downs sources all the mint for its juleps from one nearby supplier. Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 2 May 2026 The Kentucky Derby without juleps would be shorter than a commercial break. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 28 Apr. 2026 But from viewing parties to the main event itself, there’s a whole lot of cocktails happening, and there’s a lot more going on than a classic julep. Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for julep

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Middle French, from Arabic julāb, from Persian gulāb, from gul rose + āb water

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of julep was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Julep.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/julep. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

julep

noun
ju·​lep ˈjü-ləp How to pronounce julep (audio)
: a drink of bourbon, sugar, and mint served with crushed ice

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