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
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.
Originating in London, Steak Diane is a pan-seared steak topped with a flambéed cream and cognac sauce, that became a staple dish in the 1960s and 1970s across the United States. — Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 24 Aug. 2026 The grandson of the founder of the Hennessy cognac dynasty (also named Kilian Hennessy), Hennessy has known fine liquor his entire life. — Kiana Murden, Vogue, 18 Aug. 2026 There’s also a mix of popular classics, such as Knob Creek bourbon, Campari liqueur and Hennessy cognac, alongside upstart brands like Stetson bourbon, which debuted just a few weeks ago. — John Kell, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026 The bag comes in classic black, warm cognac, and dark brown, all of which feel appropriate for autumn and year-round wear. — Kaitlin Marks, Travel + Leisure, 13 Aug. 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

Rhymes for cognac

See All Rhymes for cognac

Browse Nearby Words

cogman
cognac
cognate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cognac.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cognac. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on cognac

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about cognac

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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