libation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (facetious) a serving of an alcoholic beverage
  2. noun a serving (of wine) poured out in honor of a deity
  3. noun the act of pouring a liquid offering (especially wine) as a religious ceremony

WordNet

Li*ba"tion noun
Etymology
L. libatio, fr. libare to take a little from anything, to taste, to pour out as an offering: cf. F. libation.
Definitions
  1. The act of pouring a liquid or liquor, usually wine, either on the ground or on a victim in sacrifice, in honor of some deity; also, the wine or liquid thus poured out. Dryden.
    A heathen sacrifice or libation to the earth. Bacon.

Webster 1913