aguardiente
/aɡwaɾˈdjente/
The English phrase "moonshine drink" is translated into Spanish as aguardiente.
The term aguardiente can refer to any distilled spirit, but it is the standard term used for strong, homemade or illicitly produced spirits in many Spanish-speaking contexts.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the moonshine drink is often referred to as Orujo.
How do you pronounce it?
/aɡwaɾˈdjente/
Did you know?
- In Colombia, aguardiente is not just a moonshine drink but a national symbol, often flavored with anise and served in small glasses called copitas.
- The word aguardiente is a compound of 'agua' (water) and 'ardiente' (burning). It literally translates to 'burning water', describing the intense sensation of the spirit in the throat.
- In some Latin American cultures, a small sip of aguardiente is traditionally taken before a meal to 'open the appetite' or as a digestive aid.
Examples in context
- ¿Podría pedir un poco de licor casero destilado?May I order some homemade distilled liquor?
- Cuidado con ese aguardiente casero.Be careful with that homemade moonshine.
- Él fabrica aguardiente en su granja.He makes moonshine on his farm.
Example conversation
María and Daniel are visiting a rural village.
- María¿Qué es esa botella que tiene el señor?What is that bottle the man has?
- DanielParece que es aguardiente casero, María.It looks like it's homemade moonshine, María.
- María¿Es peligroso probarlo?Is it dangerous to try it?
- DanielSí, Daniel cree que es mejor no arriesgarse.Yes, Daniel thinks it's better not to take the risk.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry aguardiente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries aguardiente, CC BY-SA 4.0.
