Meaning & Definition of word "Moonshine"
to
Moonshine
/ˈmuːnʃaɪn/
noun:
- 1. Illegally produced homemade liquor, especially distilled spirits.
- Example: The old cabin in the woods was rumored to be a moonshine distillery during Prohibition.
- 2. Light reflected from the moon; moonlight.
- Example: They danced under the soft glow of the moonshine, enjoying the peaceful night.
verb:
- 1. To produce or distill liquor illegally.
- Example: During the 1920s, many people chose to moonshine rather than buy expensive, taxed alcohol.
Etymology
The term originated in the 18th century, referring to the production of illicit liquor, often at night to avoid detection.
Common Phrases and Expressions
chasing moonshine:
Engaging in the pursuit of illicit alcohol production.
moonshine still:
A device used for distilling alcohol, often used illegally.
moonshiner:
A person who illegally distills alcohol.
Related Words
distillation:
The process of heating a liquid to create vapor and then cooling the vapor to create a liquid, used in producing moonshine.
liquor:
An alcoholic beverage distilled from fermented grains, fruits, or vegetables.
Slang Meanings of moonshine
Meaning: White lightning
Example Sentence: That white lightning will knock you off your feet!
Meaning: The good stuff
Example Sentence: This is the good stuff, the real moonshine.