libation

noun

li·​ba·​tion lī-ˈbā-shən How to pronounce libation (audio)
Synonyms of libation
1
a
: an act of pouring a liquid as a sacrifice (as to a deity)
They offered a libation at the temple.
b
: a liquid (such as wine) used in a libation
2
a
: an act or instance of drinking often ceremoniously
a libation to celebrate their anniversary
b
: beverage
especially : a drink containing alcohol
His favorite libation is scotch on the rocks.
libationary
lī-ˈbā-shə-ˌner-ē How to pronounce libation (audio)
adjective

Synonyms of libation

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Examples of libation in a Sentence

They offered libations at the temple. We met for a libation after work.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One bartender was seen downing a Red Bull before hopping back in to care for the steady stream of customers seeking libations. — Katelyn Umholtz, Kansas City Star, 1 July 2026 Enjoy weekend barbecues and lush libations on Ritz Paris’ terrace. — Lane Nieset, Forbes.com, 5 June 2026 Seek libations among the bars of Spanish Mission-style New Regent Street. — Steve Madgwick, Travel + Leisure, 18 June 2026 Bars are the clear winner of these opening matches with fans spotted dancing on tables, chanting their lungs out, and depleting establishments of all libations. — Mike Sullivan, CBS News, 15 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for libation

Word History

Etymology

Middle English libacioun, from Latin libation-, libatio, from libare to pour as an offering; akin to Greek leibein to pour

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of libation was in the 14th century

Rhymes for libation

See All Rhymes for libation

Browse Nearby Words

libate
libation
libationer
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Cite this Entry

“Libation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/libation. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

libation

noun
li·​ba·​tion lī-ˈbā-shən How to pronounce libation (audio)
1
a
: the act of pouring a liquid in honor of a god
b
: a liquid (as wine) poured as a libation
2
: a drink poured or taken as if to honor a god

More from Merriam-Webster on libation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about libation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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