NYT Dictionary

RATAFIA

/ˌɹætəˈfiːə/
NounRAT-a-fi-arat-a-fi-a · 4 syllablesAdvanced/Professional

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024, 2025

Meaning

A liqueur or cordial flavored with peach or cherry kernels, bitter almonds, or other fruits.

Etymology

Origin: Latin

Borrowed from Creole French ratafia, from the Latin phrase rata fiat (conventio) (“the deal is made”), a drinking toast expression to celebrate a deal or an agreement. Or, sharing an Arabic origin with arak.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

ratafia biscuitratafee

NYT Puzzle Appearances

No published puzzle dates on file for this word yet. It is part of the official NYT Spelling Bee word list for 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024, 2025.

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