Pronunciation: [dɪkˈants] (IPA) 
Decants is a verb that refers to the act of pouring a liquid from one container to another, typically done to separate any sediment or impurities. The word is spelled with a "c" and not a "k" because it comes from the Latin word "decantare". In IPA phonetic transcription, the pronunciation of decants is /diˈkænts/. The stress is on the second syllable and the "c" sound is pronounced like a "k". The final "s" is also pronounced /s/.
Decanting refers to the process of transferring a liquid from one container to another, usually done to separate any sediment or solid particles that may have settled at the bottom. This technique is commonly used in various contexts, such as in the field of chemistry, wine making, or even in everyday household activities.
The term specifically implies pouring the liquid out carefully, ensuring that the sediments stay at the bottom of the original container. This can be achieved by pouring slowly and steadily, using a decanting ladle or any specialized equipment designed for this purpose. The aim is to leave the undesirable particles, like residue or sediment, behind while retrieving the clear liquid portion.
Decanting has a number of purposes depending on the context. In chemistry, it may be used to isolate a purified substance or separate different components of a mixture. In the case of wine, decanting can help enhance its taste by allowing it to breathe and removing any sediment that might have accumulated during aging.
Overall, decanting is a technique to achieve a cleaner and clearer liquid by separating unwanted particles. It requires precision and careful handling to ensure only the desired portion is transferred. Whether in scientific laboratories, wine cellars, or even simple household tasks like pouring juice or oil, decanting is a widely used technique for obtaining a higher-quality liquid product.
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The word "decants" has its origin in the French verb "décant(e)r" which means "to transfer liquid from one vessel to another". It comes from the Latin word "decantare" which is a combination of "de-" (meaning "down") and "cantare" (meaning "to sing"). The Latin term "decantare" originally referred to the action of pouring wine carefully, while avoiding the sediment at the bottom of the bottle. Over time, the term expanded to include the general process of transferring liquids between containers, not limited to wine. Eventually, "decant" entered the English language with the same meaning in the 17th century.
