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

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

From Time Magazine Archive

It has attacked the Sunday mails, assaulted Free Masonry, triumphed over the intemperate use of ardent spirits, and finally engaged in an onslaught upon the slavery of the South.

From History of American Abolitionism by Fontaine, F. G. de

It is proof that we have not been in the habit of indulging in the use of ardent spirits, and that pride we should ever strive to maintain.”

From The Giraffe Hunters by Reid, Mayne

They are not much addicted to ardent spirits, nor are these now supplied to them, but they have an inveterate propensity to gamble.

From Adventures Among the Red Indians Romantic Incidents and Perils Amongst the Indians of North and South America by Hyrst, H. W. G.

They go back to the time when they both landed at Calcutta, young and ardent spirits, eager for adventure, and urged by a bold ambition to win distinction.

From Barrington Volume I (of II) by Lever, Charles James