kumiss

The fermented milk of a mare or camel, used as a beverage by certain peoples of western and central Asia.

A common beverage of the nomads of northern Asia, consisting of fermented mares’ milk, resembling sour buttermilk, but clear and free from greasiness. The Kirghiz and others distil an intoxicating liquor from it.

A fermented dietetic and sanitary drink made in western countries, in imitation of the preceding, from cows’ milk with sugar and yeast, and allowed to ferment until it becomes effervescent and slightly alcoholic.

Alternative spelling of koumiss.