underproof

American  

[uhn-der-proof] / ˈʌn dərˈpruf /

adjective

1. containing a smaller proportion of alcohol than proof spirit.

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underproof British  

/ ˌʌndəˈpruːf /

adjective

1. (of a spirit) containing less than 57.1 per cent alcohol by volume

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Etymology

Origin of underproof

First recorded in 1855–60; under- + proof

Example Sentences

But in some ways he was a kind of Thackeray several degrees underproof—a small-beer Thackeray that was a very excellent creature.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus, spirit of wine at 56 per cent. overproof, signifies that 100 gallons of it are equal to 156 gallons of proof spirit; while a spirit at 20 per cent. underproof, signifies that 100 gallons are equal to 80 gallons at proof.

From Project Gutenberg

The Excise rule is as follows:— To reduce from any given strength to any required strength, add the overproof per centage to 100, or subtract the underproof per centage from 100.

From Project Gutenberg

Multiply the result by the quantity of spirit, and divide the product by the number obtained by adding the required per centage overproof, or subtracting the required per centage underproof, to or from 100, as the case may be.

From Project Gutenberg

Undermine is a greater rascal than Underhand, and had it not been for the counter-acting influence of Underproof, our house had fallen to the ground; to the ground it might have fallen, but had it gone farther, it would have been only to be revived in the person of Underground, a gentleman well known in the kitchens and pantries of the metropolis, the pantries in particular, he being a constant companion to the Under-butler.

From Project Gutenberg