open bar

noun

: a bar (as at a wedding reception) at which drinks are served free compare cash bar

Examples of open bar in a Sentence

They had a buffet and an open bar at the reception.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The festive evening, which includes cuisine from Arthur’s, an open bar and a silent auction, begins at 5 p.m. March 30 at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St. in Orlando. Matthew J. Palm, Orlando Sentinel, 19 Mar. 2025 The reception alone will feature each of the authors, who will be available to sign books, plus an open bar, hors d’oeuvres and silent auction. Oline H. Cogdill, Sun Sentinel, 13 Mar. 2025 For $1,000, VIPs could snag an on-court seat—yes, literally on the court—complete with a welcome gift, open bar access, and the thrill of possibly dodging a stray dink. David Hochman, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025 This indoor area is climate-controlled and offers a behind-the-scenes of the Paddock and Paddock Runway, along with gourmet food, small group bourbon and wine tastings, premium open bar, and dedicated mutuel windows. Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for open bar

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of open bar was in 1947

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Cite this Entry

“Open bar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20bar. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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