Pronunciation: [kˈɔːkt] (IPA) 
The word "corked" is typically spelled with the letter combination "ck." This signifies a hard, abrupt stop in the pronunciation of the word, as in the /k/ sound in "cat." The IPA phonetic transcription for "corked" is /kɔrkt/, with the /k/ representing the aforementioned stop, the "o" pronounced as the "aw" sound in "law," and the "r" pronounced with a slight roll. The final "ed" is pronounced as the sound /t/, signifying the past tense.
Corked is an adjective that refers to the unpleasant characteristic or condition of a beverage, typically wine, that has been affected by a chemical compound called 2,4,6-Trichloroanisole (TCA). This compound is produced when natural cork interacts with certain microbes that create an odor-inducing substance. Consequently, when a bottle of wine is described as being corked, it means that the cork used to seal the bottle has been contaminated with TCA, imparting a distinct and undesirable flavor or odor to the wine.
The corked characteristic introduces a damp, musty, and moldy smell that can be likened to wet cardboard or a dank basement. This off-putting aroma also translates into an unpleasant taste once the wine is consumed. It dulls the fruitiness of the wine, causing it to taste dull, flat, and lacking in vibrancy.
When a wine professional, such as a sommelier or wine enthusiast, encounters a corked bottle, they may describe it as flawed or spoiled. When identified by a consumer, it is often returned to the seller or restaurant to be replaced or refunded, as the wine is considered undrinkable in its current state.
In summary, the term "corked" describes a negative sensory experience in wine resulting from the presence of the chemical compound TCA, imparting unappealing aromas and flavors that deviate from the desired characteristics of the wine.
• Provided or fitted with a cork.
• Resembling or tasting of cork.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "corked" has its origin in the English language and specifically derived from the noun "cork". "Cork" can be traced back to the Middle English word "cork" or "corke", which originated from the Old Spanish word "corcha" or "c(o)ruca". The Old Spanish term was derived from the Latin word "quercus", meaning "oak tree", which referred to the bark of the cork oak tree used to make stoppers for bottles. Over time, "cork" morphed into an adjective form, "corked", typically used to describe an unpleasant smell or taste resulting from a tainted or contaminated cork stopper in a bottle, particularly wine or other beverages sealed with cork.
