libation

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun (facetious) a serving of an alcoholic beverage
  2. noun a serving (of wine) poured out in honor of a deity
  3. noun the act of pouring a liquid offering (especially wine) as a religious ceremony

Etymology

From Latin lībātiō, from lībāre (“to take a little from anything, to taste, to pour out as an offering”).

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