MOONSHINE Meaning and
Definition
-
Moonshine is a noun with various associated meanings, typically referring to illicitly produced or homemade distilled alcohol. As a primary definition, moonshine pertains to an illegally produced liquor, usually distilled at night under moonlight to avoid detection by authorities. This term traces its origins to the United States during the Prohibition era when the manufacturing, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were prohibited from 1920 to 1933. Moonshine gained popularity as a means of producing alcoholic beverages in secret, often in makeshift distilleries hidden in backwoods areas.
The term moonshine has also acquired metaphorical connotations beyond its association with illegal alcohol production. It can refer to any homemade or amateur product or activity that is produced illicitly or without proper authorization. This usage highlights the clandestine and unsanctioned nature of the endeavor. Additionally, moonshine can be employed to describe deceptive or fanciful talk, typically characterized by false information or exaggerated claims. In this sense, it signifies an unsubstantiated story or an elaborate fabrication intended to mislead others. Furthermore, moonshine can be used as a slang term to indicate something that is insignificant, irrelevant, or lacking importance. This usage conveys the idea that the subject matter is inconsequential or trivial. Overall, moonshine encapsulates multiple dimensions, from illegal alcohol production to deceptive talk and insignificance, making it a versatile term with diverse significances in various contexts.
-
• The light of the moon; mere show without substance or reality.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MOONSHINE
Etymology of MOONSHINE
The word "moonshine" has a rich and diverse etymology, originating from Middle English and having undergone several transformations over time.
The term can be traced back to Old English, where "mōna" meant "moon" and "sċīnan" meant "to shine". This Old English combination eventually gave rise to the word "mōnsċīnan", which appeared in Middle English as "monscheine" or "mone schyne". These variants were used to refer to the light emitted by the moon.
In the 16th century, the term "moonshine" began to be used metaphorically to describe something that was deceptive, unreal, or illusory, much like the light of the moon itself. This usage likely inspired its association with illegal or homemade distilled alcohol.
Similar spelling words for MOONSHINE
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
