1. containing alcohol; alcoholic
Usage: archaic; formal
2. having a lively or energetic quality; spirited
Usage: archaic; literary

Examples

• The tavern keeper served only spiritous beverages to his patrons.
• Wine and other spiritous liquors were heavily taxed in the colony.
• The old recipe called for spiritous drinks to be served at the celebration.
• Her spiritous nature made her the life of every gathering.
• The spiritous debate continued well into the evening.
• He preferred spiritous company over quiet, reserved companions.