Brine refers to a solution of salt in water, typically used for preserving food or enhancing flavor. It is most commonly associated with the process of pickling vegetables or meats, where the salt in the brine helps to inhibit bacterial growth and adds taste.
The word "brine" comes from the Old English word "brīn," which means "salt water" or "sea." It is related to the Proto-Germanic word "*brinō," reflecting its long history of usage in describing salty water.