What does it mean for a martini to be dry?

When a martini is referred to as "dry," it indicates the level of dryness or the ratio of vermouth to gin or vodka. A dry martini contains a minimal amount of dry vermouth, resulting in a strong and prominent flavor of gin or vodka. The dryness level can vary based on personal preference, but generally, a dry martini has a 5:1 or 6:1 ratio of gin/vodka to vermouth.

In contrast, a "wet" martini contains more vermouth, giving it a milder flavor profile. The dryness of a martini is often adjusted by the bartender based on the customer's preference or by using specific vermouth brands known for their dryness.

The term "dry" when used in the context of a martini refers specifically to the amount of vermouth used in the drink and does not relate to the absence of moisture.