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Pronunciation

[WHYTE LYTE-nin]

Meaning & Usage

- High-proof, clear liquor (noun)

Elmer:
Careful with that jug - it’s straight white-lightnin’.
Estel:
One sip and you’ll know it.
variations: white lightning, white-lightnin, white lightnin’
★ They don’t call it "lightnin’" for nothin’ - it’s fast, strong, and leaves a burn you’ll remember. ★

Origin and Etymology

The name comes from its clear color ("white") and the quick, burning effect it has ("lightning"). The dropped "g" in "lightnin’" reflects Appalachian pronunciation, preserved in song lyrics, folklore, and bootlegging tales.

Usage Notes

"White-lightnin’" is almost always homemade and often stronger than store-bought liquor. It’s part of Appalachian moonshine culture and appears frequently in music and storytelling.

Kin Topics

Related Pages

Common Questions

How strong is white-lightnin’?
It can be 100-150 proof (50-75% alcohol), much stronger than most commercial liquors.
Is white-lightnin’ legal?
Not if it’s unlicensed moonshine. Legal versions exist today, but the name still carries an outlaw image.
Why is it called "white-lightnin’"?
Because it’s clear in color and hits fast and hard, like lightning.
Is all moonshine white-lightnin’?
Not exactly. White-lightnin’ refers to the clear, unaged kind - some moonshine is aged or flavored.

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