libation

noun

li·​ba·​tion lī-ˈbā-shən How to pronounce libation (audio)
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 adjective

Examples of libation in a Sentence

They offered libations at the temple. We met for a libation after work.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In honor of this local libation, this competition was all about seeing how the top mixologists in the area would put their own unique spin on this beloved and well-known drink. Essence, 6 July 2025 Crafted with blends of ginger-turmeric juice and citrus kicks, these libations promise to make the sobriety endurance a little easier. Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 Bar Hop Thimphu Wedged into a narrow mountain valley, Thimphu offers a surprisingly good bar scene, dozens of places where visitors can sample local libations, catch homegrown tunes, and hang out with residents of Bhutan’s capital and largest city. Joe Yogerst, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025 People can also listen to live music on the community stage with the Coral Bells Band and a have a beverage at the libations lounge, or find healthy, organic food by the hillside. Lisa Deaderick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for libation

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of libation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Libation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/libation. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

libation

noun
li·​ba·​tion lī-ˈbā-shən How to pronounce libation (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on libation

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