spirituous

[ spir-i-choo-uhs ]

adjective

1. containing, of the nature of, or pertaining to alcohol; alcoholic.
2. (of alcoholic beverages) distilled, rather than fermented.

spirituous

/ ˌspɪrɪtjʊˈɒsɪtɪ; ˈspɪrɪtjʊəs /

adjective

1. characterized by or containing alcohol
2. (of a drink) being a spirit

Derived Forms

• spirituosity, noun

Other Words From

• spirit·u·ous·ly adverb
• spirit·u·ous·ness noun
• non·spirit·u·ous adjective
• non·spirit·u·ous·ness noun
• un·spirit·u·ous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of spirituous¹

1590–1600; < Latin spīritu-, stem of spīritus spirit + -ous

Example Sentences

Every Chinese, rich or poor, drinks neither pure water nor spirituous liquors, but invariably indulges in weak tea with no sugar.

From Project Gutenberg

A lease for an unlawful purpose is void, for example, for the sale of spirituous liquors contrary to law.

From Project Gutenberg

Some men are perfectly free as regards their attitude towards indulgence in spirituous liquors.

From Project Gutenberg

The apothecary is to take care that he does not take either opium or spirituous liquors.

From Project Gutenberg

The persons were generally much addicted to the use of spirituous liquors; were very fat; in most instances women, and old.

From Project Gutenberg