fino: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal/Specialized
Quick answer
What does “fino” mean?
A type of very dry, pale sherry from Spain.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of very dry, pale sherry from Spain.
Can refer more generally to anything of a particularly fine, delicate, or thin quality, though this is less common.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is equally recognized in both varieties but is more likely to be encountered in UK contexts due to stronger historical and cultural ties to sherry production and consumption.
Connotations
Connotes sophistication, specialty knowledge, and a refined palate.
Frequency
Low frequency in general language; higher frequency in wine criticism, gourmet food writing, and hospitality contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “fino” in a Sentence
[DRINK] a glass of fino[SERVE] fino chilled[PAIR] fino with [FOOD]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “fino” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The fino sherry was served well chilled.
- He preferred the fino style to the richer oloroso.
American English
- They ordered a fino sherry before dinner.
- The menu featured a fino from Jerez.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used outside of the wine and spirits import/export or hospitality sectors.
Academic
Used in oenology (wine science) and culinary arts papers.
Everyday
Virtually unused in casual conversation unless discussing specific drinks.
Technical
Standard term in viticulture and sommelier terminology for a specific sherry style.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “fino”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “fino”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “fino”
- Using it as a general adjective ('a fino wine' for any wine) is incorrect.
- Mispronouncing with a short 'i' (/ˈfɪnoʊ/).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, 'fino' is a specific type of sherry. Sherry is the broader category, and fino is a dry, pale variety aged under flor yeast.
Fino is best served chilled, typically between 7-10°C (45-50°F), and consumed soon after opening as it loses its freshness.
While you might encounter it poetically or in specialized contexts (e.g., 'fino thread'), it is not standard English. Its primary and almost exclusive meaning relates to sherry.
Fino pairs excellently with almonds, olives, light seafood (like prawns or oysters), tapas, and mild cheeses.
A type of very dry, pale sherry from Spain.
Fino is usually formal/specialized in register.
Fino: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfiːnəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfiːnoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As dry as a fino”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
FINO sounds like 'FINE, oh!' – the reaction to tasting this fine, dry sherry.
Conceptual Metaphor
DRYNESS IS SOPHISTICATION / LIGHTNESS IS REFINEMENT
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of a 'fino'?