411 REFERENCE · Wiktionary
Fastenbier
Reference material by Wiktionary contributors. This retains its source identity and is not 411 news reporting.
German
Etymology
From de Fasten fasting Bier beer.
In the Catholic tradition, liquids are not considered food. Beer was also not forbidden as a luxury item (such as wine) because, at least in the German-speaking areas, it was considered a staple. Therefore it was possible to use strong beers to alleviate hunger during Lent.
Pronunciation
de /ˈfastənˌbiːr/ [ˈfas.tn̩ˌbi(ː)ɐ̯]
de Fas ten bier
Noun
n,s:es,e
type(s) of beer traditionally brewed for Lent, generally rich in calories
Declension
n,s:es,e
de Beer Christianity