moonshine

noun

moon·​shine ˈmün-ˌshīn 

1

: moonlight

2

: empty talk : nonsense

3

: intoxicating liquor

especially : illegally distilled corn whiskey

Synonyms

• bootleg
• mountain dew
• white lightning

Examples of moonshine in a Sentence

Everything they said was just a load of moonshine.

during Prohibition, moonshine and “bathtub gin” were made secretly

Recent Examples on the Web

Similar to moonshine, that unsavory reputation still follows the modern spirit. —Maggie Menderski, The Courier-Journal, 29 Oct. 2024

And its secret ingredient is a storied family recipe for Eastern Kentucky moonshine. —Maggie Menderski, The Courier-Journal, 29 Oct. 2024

The Oak Eye Kentucky bourbon whiskey, apple pie moonshine, and hazel nut liquor–a extra special treat with Graeter’s vanilla ice cream (another Cincy delicacy)–make a visit worthwhile. —Chadd Scott, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024

One must-visit stop is Belmont Farm Distillery, which is said to be the birthplace of the first legal moonshine in the U.S. —Erin Gifford, Southern Living, 21 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

moonshine

noun

moon·​shine ˈmün-ˌshīn 

1

: moonlight entry 1

2

: meaningless talk : nonsense

3

: alcoholic liquor

especially : illegally produced whiskey made from corn

moonshiner

-ˌshī-nər

noun