Moonshine

usgb/ˈmuːnʃaɪn/
noun

Homemade or illegal alcohol.

Her grandfather used to make moonshine in the basement during prohibition.
Visual representation of "moonshine" - Homemade or illegal alcohol

Often appears as...

  • make moonshine
  • drink moonshine

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "moonshine"
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Illegal Origins

Historically, moonshine refers to illegal homemade liquor, often with a high alcohol content.

Illustration for Illegal Origins
Despite its illegal origins, moonshine has a certain lore in American culture.
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Cultural Connection

Moonshine is culturally significant, especially in rural areas of the Southern United States.

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Country songs that celebrate moonshine reflect its cultural connection.
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Negative Connotation

Though some see it as tradition, moonshine can have negative connotations due to its illegality.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The term 'moonshine' often carried a sense of danger and lawlessness.
Visual representation of the word "Moonshine"

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