What does "spirits" mean?

1. (mood or feelings) the way you feel at a particular time, especially if you are happy or hopeful. 2. (strong alcohol) strong alcoholic drinks, such as whiskey, vodka, or gin.

How do you use "spirits"?

Usually used in the plural form when referring to mood. Commonly used in British, Australian, and New Zealand English; American English speakers typically prefer 'liquor'.

spirits

US //ˈspɪɹɪts// UK //spˈɪɹɪts// spir·its

1 mood or feelings (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the way you feel at a particular time, especially if you are happy or hopeful.

a person's emotional state or level of enthusiasm. Usually plural; often modified by adjectives like 'high' or 'low'.

Example

The team was in high spirits after winning the final game of the season.

Example

Despite the initial setbacks, the crew remained in good spirits, confident that the repairs would be completed before the storm arrived.

Usage

Usually used in the plural form when referring to mood.
2 strong alcohol (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate British English

strong alcoholic drinks, such as whiskey, vodka, or gin.

distilled alcoholic beverages as opposed to fermented ones like beer or wine.

Example

The bar serves a wide variety of beers, wines, and spirits.

Example

The import tax on spirits has risen sharply, affecting the retail price of premium gin and scotch whiskey.

Usage

Commonly used in British, Australian, and New Zealand English; American English speakers typically prefer 'liquor'.
- liquor
- hard liquor

Idioms2 entries