n. [ Russ. kumys; of Mongolian origin. ] An intoxicating fermented or distilled liquor originally made by the Tartars of central Asia from mare's or camel's milk. It can be obtained from any kind of milk, and is now largely made in Europe. [ Written also koumyss, kumiss, kumis, kumish, and kumys. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Koumiss has from time immemorial served the Tartar instead of wine or spirits. J. H. Newman. [ 1913 Webster ]