libation

noun

li·​ba·​tion lī-ˈbā-shən 

1

a

: an act of pouring a liquid as a sacrifice (as to a deity)

They offered a libation at the temple.

b

: a liquid (such as wine) used in a libation

2

a

: an act or instance of drinking often ceremoniously

a libation to celebrate their anniversary

b

: beverage

especially : a drink containing alcohol

His favorite libation is scotch on the rocks.

libationary

lī-ˈbā-shə-ˌner-ē 

adjective

Synonyms

• beverage
• drink
• drinkable
• potable
• quencher

Examples of libation in a Sentence

They offered libations at the temple.

We met for a libation after work.

Recent Examples on the Web

Open 5pm-midnight, Tuesday-Sunday Lake Effect: The downtown establishment's menu contains an impressive list of non-alcoholic libations, from mocktails and fruit juices to bottled drinks and spirits. —Kim Bojórquez, Axios, 3 Jan. 2025

But the secret to the fanbase’s happiness might be found in their libations. —Chris Dorsey, Forbes, 26 Dec. 2024

Margaritas, sangria and other libations are also available at the bar. —Greg Braxton, Los Angeles Times, 9 Oct. 2024

Pont Neuf Located at: L&L Market, 3820 Charlotte Ave. Enjoy French-style libations and build your own flower bouquet at Pont Neuf, a new cocktail bar from Amelia's Flowers owner Mattie Bush-Martin. —Diana Leyva, The Tennessean, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English libacioun, from Latin libation-, libatio, from libare to pour as an offering; akin to Greek leibein to pour

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

libation

noun

li·​ba·​tion lī-ˈbā-shən 

1

a

: the act of pouring a liquid in honor of a god

b

: a liquid (as wine) poured as a libation

2

: a drink poured or taken as if to honor a god