Why distilled alcoholic drinks are called spirits Distillation is proof that spirits exist. (more) Why Are Alcoholic Drinks Called Spirits? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/topic/Why-Are-Alcoholic-Drinks-Called-Spirits Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Aug 27, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot The term spirits for distilled alcoholic drinks originates in the process of distillation. When a fermented liquid, such as wine or beer, is heated, its alcohol vaporizes before its water does. Early distillers regarded this vapor as the “spirit” of the liquid—its purest and most vital essence—and condensed it back into liquid form. During the Middle Ages this concentrated alcohol was often referred to as aqua vitae, Latin for “water of life,” and it was prized both as a medicinal remedy and as a source of intoxication. Alchemists and physicians alike described it as capturing the “soul” of the drink, ...(100 of 175 words)

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