Definition of: mescal

(mes·kal′) noun
1. A spineless cactus (Lophophora williamsii), native to the SW United States and northern Mexico. Its tops, which are often called mescal buttons, grow but little above the ground, contain a narcotic stimulating substance, and are chewed by the Indians, especially during the performance of religious ceremonies.
2. A mescal maguey.
3. An intoxicating liquor distilled from pulque. [<Sp. mezcal <Nahuatl mexcalli]