libation

[ lahy-bey-shuhn ]

noun

1. a pouring out of wine or other liquid in honor of a deity.
2. the liquid poured out.
3. Often Facetious.
   1. an intoxicating beverage, as wine, especially when drunk in ceremonial or celebrative situations.
   2. an act or instance of drinking such a beverage.

libation

/ laɪˈbeɪʃən /

noun

1. 1. the pouring out of wine, etc, in honour of a deity
   2. the liquid so poured out
2. facetious.
   an alcoholic drink

Derived Forms

• liˈbational, adjective

Other Words From

• li·bation·al li·bation·ary adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of libation¹

1350–1400; Middle English libacio ( u ) n < Latin lībātiōn- (stem of lībātiō ) a drink offering, equivalent to lībāt ( us ) (past participle of lībāre to pour; cognate with Greek leíbein ) + -iōn- -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of libation¹

C14: from Latin lībātiō, from lībāre to pour an offering of drink

Example Sentences

But you might not know the recipe for the perfect citrus libation to keep you sated as you cue up the next episode — and that’s where this 256-page official recipe guide by Regula Ysewijn comes in.

From Los Angeles Times

While many cookbooks end with dessert, we chose to highlight the importance of the welcome libation, ensuring that every meal begins with a touch of Southern hospitality and sets the tone for the rest of the meal.

From Salon

We believe that a thoughtful libation sets the tone for the meal and it’s a Southern tradition to welcome guests with a cocktail.

From Salon

A few soft drinks are the only libation.

From Los Angeles Times

Three days after placing American flags in the cemetery, Dukes joined others inside the military park’s visitor center for a libation ceremony, a traditional African religious ritual, to pay tribute to the 20 men killed or wounded at Ross Landing.

From Seattle Times