Congener (Noun)
Meaning 1
A minor chemical constituent that gives a wine or liquor its distinctive character.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The subtle hint of citrus in the fine Merlot was due to the presence of a particular congener.
- Vintners believe that certain congenerics, like furfural and benzaldehyde, contribute to the complexity of their port wine.
- Congeners are chemical compounds found in the grapes, oak barrels, or other sources that distinguish a Cabernet Sauvignon from a Pinot Noir.
- Fusel oils are congenerics found in spirits, responsible for their characteristic flavors and aromas.
- Bourbon's rich, spicy flavor is often attributed to a congener produced during the aging process in charred oak barrels.
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
A whole (a thing or person) of the same kind or category as another; "lard was also used, though its congener, butter, was more frequently employed"; "the American shopkeeper differs from his European congener".
Classification
Unique beginner for nouns.
Hypernyms
Meaning 3
An animal or plant that bears a relationship to another (as related by common descent or by membership in the same genus).
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The grey wolf is a congener of the domestic dog, with both species sharing a common ancestor.
- In the genus Canis, the coyote is a congener of the red wolf.
- The black rhinoceros and the white rhinoceros are congeners that coexist in some African habitats.
- Scientists consider the extinct quagga to be a congener of the plains zebra.
- The giant panda and the red panda are congeners, both belonging to the family Ailuridae.