libation

American  

[lahy-bey-shuhn] / laɪˈbeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. a pouring out of wine or other liquid in honor of a deity.

2. the liquid poured out.

3. Often Facetious.

   1. an intoxicating beverage, as wine, especially when drunk in ceremonial or celebrative situations.

   2. an act or instance of drinking such a beverage.

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libation British  

/ laɪˈbeɪʃən /

noun

1. 1. the pouring out of wine, etc, in honour of a deity

   2. the liquid so poured out

2. facetious an alcoholic drink

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Other Word Forms

• libational adjective
• libationary adjective

Etymology

Origin of libation

1350–1400; Middle English libacio ( u ) n < Latin lībātiōn- (stem of lībātiō ) a drink offering, equivalent to lībāt ( us ) (past participle of lībāre to pour; cognate with Greek leíbein ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

We believe that a thoughtful libation sets the tone for the meal and it’s a Southern tradition to welcome guests with a cocktail.

From Salon

A few soft drinks are the only libation.

From Los Angeles Times

“This year, the Arizona Bowl is bringing sports, libations, and entertainment into a singular bowl game, and we are changing the definition of what a brand partnership is in the NCAA.”

From Los Angeles Times

Concertgoers at the Paramount Theater and attendees of the Northwest Folklife Festival, for example, can now order their libations in reusable polypropylene cups.

From Salon

Chen suspects shoppers eventually will tire of purpose-driven drinks in favor of simpler libations.

From Seattle Times