The word "Spirituousness" (spɪrɪtjuəsnəs) refers to the presence of alcohol in a substance, such as a drink or medicine. The spelling of the word can be broken down into its phonetic components. "Sp-" represents the consonant blend /sp/, while "ɪr" represents the vowel sound /ɪr/. "tju" represents the diphthong /tju/, which combines the sounds /t/ and /ju:/ (as in "you"). Finally, "-ousness" represents the suffix meaning "full of" or "having the qualities of." Together, these sounds create the complex, multi-syllabic spelling of "Spirituousness."
Spirituousness is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being spirituous. Spirituous, in turn, describes something that contains or is related to distilled spirits or alcohol. The term also connotes a higher alcoholic content, indicating a significant degree of potency. The state of spirituousness reflects a condition where something is saturated or infused with an alcoholic substance.
Typically, spirituousness is associated with beverages or substances that possess a strong, alcoholic nature. This quality is often determined by the concentration of ethanol, a primary component found in distilled spirits. For example, spirits like whiskey, vodka, rum, or gin are considered highly spirituous due to their relatively high alcohol content. The term is also used to describe the quality of a drink or a substance in terms of its ability to intoxicate or induce a sense of inebriation.
Spirituousness can also be used metaphorically or figuratively to describe a non-alcoholic entity that possesses a similar potency, energy, or vigor. In this context, it implies a sense of intense or forceful nature, typically related to emotions or actions. It suggests a strong presence or impression that has the power to captivate, stimulate, or excite. This figurative usage serves to emphasize the impact or influence of a particular person, event, phenomenon, or concept, highlighting its influence and significance.
The quality of being spirituous.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "spirituousness" is derived from the word "spirituous", which is an adjective used to describe alcoholic beverages. The word can be traced to the Latin term "spirituosus" meaning "spirituous, alcoholic" which is derived from the word "spiritus" meaning "spirit" or "breath". In this context, "spirituousness" refers to the quality or state of being spirituous, or containing alcohol.