neutral spirits

noun

, (used with a singular or plural verb)

1. nonflavored alcohol of 95 percent, or 190 proof, obtained chiefly from grain or molasses or redistilled from brandy, rum, etc., used for blending with straight whiskies and in the making of gin, cordials, liqueurs, and the like.

neutral spirits

noun

1. functioning as singular or plural ethanol of more than 190° proof

Word History and Origins

Origin of neutral spirits¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

You can easily make the Madeira of neutral spirits, sugar, raisins, and logwood to color it.

From Project Gutenberg