as in alcohol
a distilled beverage that can make a person drunk
she blamed John Barleycorn for the breakdown of their marriage
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Recent Examples of John Barleycorn
Santa Claus had triumphed over John Barleycorn.
—
Gary Kamiya, San Francisco Chronicle, 24 Dec. 2021
Gary Kamiya, San Francisco Chronicle, 24 Dec. 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for John Barleycorn
Noun
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With a strong focus on local produce and fish, meals can feel restrictive–no alcohol, for example, though there is pasta (this is Italy, after all!).—
Rona Berg,
Forbes.com,
11 July 2025
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The garden is packed with picnic blankets, tables, people and alcohol.—
Tim Spiers,
New York Times,
11 July 2025
Noun
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If negotiations work out with the building’s landlord – and pending approval of a liquor license from the city of Denver – Skinner and Music City owners Sam and Jordan Graf, who are brothers, hope to turn the spot into a fully functioning bar and restaurant of their own.—
Jonathan Shikes,
Denver Post,
17 July 2025
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The 56-year-old Watertown Democrat admitted that prosecutors had enough evidence to prove their case charging him with operating a vehicle under the influence of liquor and leaving the scene of property damage.—
Flint McColgan,
Boston Herald,
17 July 2025
Noun
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Chui and Pang danced, ate cake and toasted with bubbly drinks served in the clear cups typically used on planes.—
Zoey Lyttle,
People.com,
15 July 2025
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The concept is for guests of all golf levels to enjoy three holes with a bit of socialization and great drinks.—
Paula Conway,
Forbes.com,
15 July 2025
Noun
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But still, the agave spirit is crucial to this melange of booze.—
Jeremy Repanich,
Robb Report,
11 July 2025
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Fresh juices, top-shelf booze, and a rotating cocktail menu that'll keep you guessing.—
Ana Gutierrez,
Austin American Statesman,
2 July 2025
Noun
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This 14% alcohol Barolo is the color of rum and orange juice.—
Tom Mullen,
Forbes.com,
20 July 2025
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Aged rum: The original Jungle Bird calls for blackstrap rum, which is a very dark spiced rum, Backhus tells us.—
Karla Walsh,
Better Homes & Gardens,
12 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“John Barleycorn.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/John%20Barleycorn. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.
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