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.
Plus coming up with your own libation from among 70 types of gins is a fun game of choose your own adventure. Richard Tribou, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 May 2025 Refuel with dinner and libations at Shine, which boasts Shine Slushies among its adult beverage options. Melissa Oyler, Charlotte Observer, 6 May 2025 Weekend brunch, baby showers, engagement parties, wedding receptions, graduation and birthday parties, backyard cookouts and other celebratory gatherings call for special libations. Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 6 May 2025 That local food and libations are available on board—thanks to Silversea Cruises’ S.A.L.T. Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 16 Apr. 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 16 Jun. 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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