: a cocktail made of gin and dry vermouth
also : vodka martini

Examples of martini 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.
Guests enjoyed dirty martinis, negronis, and grapefruit fizz while burger sliders and truffle toasties were passed around. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 4 Sep. 2026 The Market Fresh category of seasonal cocktails is a focal point, but spirit-forward drinks (mini-martinis, Vesper Lynd) and the Olden Days section made with a rotation of vintage finds are also excellent. Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026 Checkered tiles top the tables and throughout the far side are couches to settle into with negronis and martinis served with tasty upscale snacks at aperitivo hour. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026 With the help of a few martinis and flutes of champagne, the raucous lineup of friends, muses, and confidantes sat still long enough to take the portrait accompanying this story. José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for martini

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of Martinez (cocktail), from the name Martinez

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of martini was in 1890

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Martini.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/martini. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

: a cocktail consisting of gin and dry vermouth

Biographical Definition

Martini

biographical name

Simone circa 1284–1344 Italian painter

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