spirits
- 01 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'.
Simple“The team was in high spirits after winning the final game of the season.”
In context“Despite the initial setbacks, the crew remained in good spirits, confident that the repairs would be completed before the storm arrived.”
UsageUsually used in the plural form when referring to mood.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
strong alcoholic drinks, such as whiskey, vodka, or gin.
distilled alcoholic beverages as opposed to fermented ones like beer or wine.
Simple“The bar serves a wide variety of beers, wines, and spirits.”
In context“The import tax on spirits has risen sharply, affecting the retail price of premium gin and scotch whiskey.”
UsageCommonly used in British, Australian, and New Zealand English; American English speakers typically prefer 'liquor'.
Synonymsliquorhard liquor
“Kathryn, who takes part in walks at Heligan Gardens near Mevagissey, noted the walks helped lift her spirits when she felt down.”
“And losing to the defending champions, who also reached last season's Champions League final , was not going to dampen their spirits.”