1. Plural of pothen; illegally distilled Irish whiskey or other spirits.
Usage: informal; chiefly Irish English; also spelled poitín

Examples

• The old farmer was known to produce potheens in his barn.
• During Prohibition, potheens were smuggled across the border.
• Local legends spoke of potheens made from potatoes and grain.
• The authorities cracked down on illegal potheens production.
• He inherited his grandfather's recipe for potheens.