Lees

(Heb. shemarim), from a word meaning to keep or preserve. It was applied to “lees” from the custom of allowing wine to stand on the lees that it might thereby be better preserved (Isa. 25:6). “Men settled on their lees” (Zeph. 1:12) are men “hardened or crusted.” The image is derived from the crust formed at the bottom of wines long left undisturbed (Jer. 48:11). The effect of wealthy undisturbed ease on the ungodly is hardening. They become stupidly secure (comp. Ps. 55:19; Amos 6:1). To drink the lees (Ps. 75:8) denotes severe suffering.

the coarser parts of a liquor, its sediment or dregs. “Wine on the lees” means a generous, full-bodied liquor. (Isaiah 25:6) Before the wine was consumed, it was necessary to strain off the lees; such wine was then termed “well refined.” (Isaiah 25:6) To drink the lees, or “dregs,” was an expression for the endurance of extreme punishment. (Psalms 75:8)

LEES. "Wine on the lees," Isa 25:6, means well-preserved, full-bodied wine. "He hath settled on his lees," however, is used figuratively, Jer 48:11; Zeph 1:12, as an expression of sloth and indifference. To drink the lees or "dregs," Ps 75:8, denotes extreme suffering.

LEES. "Wine on the lees," Isa 25:6, means well-preserved, full-bodied wine. "He hath settled on his lees," however, is used figuratively, Jer 48:11; Zeph 1:12, as an expression of sloth and indifference. To drink the lees or "dregs," Ps 75:8, denotes extreme suffering.

Part of speech: noun (n.)

Dregs. See 2d Lee.

Part of speech: noun (n.)

A leash. [Obs.] Chaucer.