/bit"euhrz/ , n. ( used with a pl. v. )
1. a liquid, often an alcoholic liquor, in which bitter herbs or roots have steeped, used as a flavoring, esp. in mixed drinks, or as a tonic.
2. Pharm.
a. a liquid, usually alcoholic, impregnated with a bitter medicine, as gentian or quassia, used to increase the appetite or as a tonic.
b. bitter medicinal substances in general, as quinine.
[ 1705-15; BITTER + -S 3 ]