SHEBEEN Meaning and
Definition
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A shebeen is a noun used to describe an illegal or unlicensed establishement, commonly found in Ireland or South Africa, where alcoholic beverages are sold without proper authorization. The term originated in the late 19th century and has since become a familiar word in these regions. Shebeens typically operate underground, offering a secret haven for people to gather and consume alcoholic drinks, often late into the night. These hidden venues often emerged in response to restrictions on alcohol sales, such as apartheid laws in South Africa or licensing regulations enforced by the British government.
The word shebeen can also refer to the informal, lively atmosphere found within these establishments. They often serve as social hubs and meeting places for marginalized communities or those looking to escape the confines of societal rules. In addition to offering alcohol, shebeens may also provide small snacks and entertainment like music or dancing to enhance the convivial spirit of the place. Despite their illegal status, shebeens have played a significant role in community building and resistance against oppressive policies, offering spaces of camaraderie and cultural expression. Over time, the word "shebeen" has acquired a connotation of rebellion, resourcefulness, and resilience, representing the ability of marginalized groups to create their own spaces and forge connections amidst adversity.
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A place where spirits and other excisable liquors are illegally and privately sold.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SHEBEEN
Etymology of SHEBEEN
The word "shebeen" originated in Ireland in the late 18th century. Its etymology is uncertain, but it is believed to have derived from the Irish phrase "síbín", which means "illicit whiskey" or "shebeen house". The word eventually spread to other English-speaking countries, particularly in Africa, where it refers to an unlicensed or informal drinking establishment.
Similar spelling words for SHEBEEN
- Chioppine,
- Chapin,
- Cheopina,
- shahbanu,
- choppin,
- SHIBNI,
- shabaniyah,
- Shobhana,
- Chawbone,
- mis-shapen,
- chipan,
- schepen,
- Shepen,
- CHABIN,
- chippewyan,
- chobin,
- shabaneh,
- al-shaybani,
- shippan,
- shabani,
- chupan,
- chopin,
- shupiyan,
- SHOPN,
- shobana,
- shabaan,
- Shaaban,
- shabwani,
- chopan,
- shobanna,
- shebean,
- Shobhan,
- chibuene,
- chabana,
- schipani,
- Shippon,
- cheapen,
- shuibian,
- chuban,
- Shippen,
- sheep pen,
- chipiona,
- shibanna,
- Shebaniah,
- chopine,
- sha'ban,
- shiban,
- chaabane,
- chipewyan,
- chaponnay,
- Shebna,
- Shapen,
- chapon,
- chippewaian,
- shibani,
- shaibani,
- schaben,
- shobna,
- Shaban,
- shubin,
- Chappion,
- chabon,
- Shopen,
- shibin,
- chaban,
- shabana,
- shaybani,
- chaban-delmas,
- schwaben,
- shaven,
- ill-shapen,
- schoepen,
- chabane,
- sheibani,
- schuppan,
- chapan.
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