moonshine
In Appalachian speech, "moonshine" is homemade liquor - usually clear, high-proof, and often made in secret to avoid the law.
Pronunciation
[MOON-shyn]
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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.
other spellings: white-lightnin’, white lightning, shine, corn liquor, hooch, white whisky, mountain dew, and
★ If someone hands you a jar of moonshine, ask who made it - and maybe what proof it is - before taking a big swig. ★