Definition of the word sake1

The word "sake" in its modern context refers to a traditional Japanese rice wine. Its origin can be traced back to ancient times in Japan, where it was known as "namazake" or "passer-out sake," meaning chilled and weak in alcohol. The term "sake" itself is believed to have originated from the Japanese verb "saku," meaning "to make" or "to manufacture." This stemmed from the process of sake-making, which involves multiple stages of fermentation and aging. In the production of sake, cooked rice is combined with water and yeast. The rice is polished to remove the outer layers, resulting in a higher concentration of starch and a smoother, more refined flavor in the resulting sake. The name "sake" was officially adopted in the Meiji Restoration, when Japan opened itself up to the global community in the late 19th century. It became associated with the western concept of "alcoholic beverages," since it could no longer be distinguished from western-style wines and spirits. Overall, sake's rich cultural heritage and unique production process have contributed to its popularity as a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage, with its distinct flavor and symbolic significance in Japanese culture.