ardent spirits

American  

plural noun

1. strong alcoholic liquors made by distillation, as brandy, whiskey, or gin.

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ardent spirits British  

plural noun

1. spirits, such as rum, whisky, etc

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Etymology

Origin of ardent spirits

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

ardent spirits

Yet the nation's most famous glutton spurned ardent spirits for orange juice and lemon pop.

From Time Magazine Archive

Even the ardent spirits beneath the gallery had ceased to applaud; they sat back in the shadow, all their enthusiasm quenched.

From The Turnstile by A. E. W. (Alfred Edward Woodley) Mason

As a beverage they do not use ardent spirits, and seem to have no taste or desire for the article, though they drink the ordinary claret—rarely anything stronger.

From Due South or Cuba Past and Present by Maturin Murray Ballou

We told him that we seldom drank ardent spirits; and I added, that as for myself, I seldom tasted even wine, but, like himself, was content with the use of water. 

From The Bible in Spain Vol. 1 [of 2] by George Henry Borrow

The prohibition of the sale of ardent spirits within certain areas has inaugurated a new and beneficial national policy.

From Stand Up, Ye Dead by Norman Maclean