Moonshine

In Appalachian speech, "moonshine" is homemade liquor - usually clear, high-proof, and often made in secret to avoid the law.

#SouthernWords #Appalachia #Euphemisms

Pronunciation

[MOON-shyn]

Meaning & Usage

- Illegally made liquor (noun)

Elmer:

You bringin’ any moonshine to the get-together?

Estel:

Just a little white-lightnin’ - don’t tell the revenuer.

- Light of the moon (literal meaning)

Elmer:

Ain’t nothin’ prettier than moonshine on fresh snow.

Estel:

Reckon you’re right.

variations: white-lightnin’, white lightning, shine, corn liquor, hooch, white whisky, mountain dew,

★ If someone hands you a jar of moonshine, ask who made it - and maybe what proof it is - before taking a big swig. ★

Origin and Etymology

From the practice of making liquor by the light of the moon to avoid detection. The term dates to at least the 18th century in Britain for smuggled liquor and was carried to Appalachia by early settlers.

Usage Notes

Moonshine is typically clear, unaged corn whiskey. While commercial "moonshine" is now legally sold, the traditional Appalachian meaning refers to unlicensed, home-distilled liquor.

Kin Topics

Common Questions

What’s moonshine made from?

Usually cornmeal mash, sugar, water, and yeast.

Why is moonshine illegal?

Because it’s untaxed and unregulated. Making it without a license violates alcohol laws.

How strong is moonshine?

Anywhere from 80 to over 150 proof (40-75% alcohol), depending on the recipe and distiller.

Is all moonshine dangerous?

Not if it’s made properly, but bad distilling can leave harmful impurities in the liquor.

Who was Popcorn Sutton?

A legendary Appalachian moonshiner from Maggie Valley, North Carolina, known for his skill, storytelling, and defiance of the law. His recipes and persona became famous worldwide.

Is moonshine legal now?

You can buy legal "moonshine" today from licensed distilleries, especially in places like Tennessee and North Carolina. It’s usually made with the same basic ingredients but under government regulation - and often sold in mason jars for tradition’s sake.

How to Cite This Page

APA (7th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. (2025, September 21). Moonshine. HillbillySlang.com. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/moonshine
MLA (9th edition)
"The Hillbilly Dude." "Moonshine." HillbillySlang.com, 21 Sept. 2025, https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/moonshine.
Chicago (17th edition)
The Hillbilly Dude. "Moonshine." HillbillySlang.com. September 21, 2025. https://www.hillbillyslang.com/definitions/moonshine.

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