black-tie

1 of 2

adjective

variants or less commonly black tie
: characterized by or requiring the wearing of semiformal evening clothes consisting of a usually black tie and tuxedo for men and a formal dress for women
a black-tie dinner
compare white-tie

black tie

2 of 2

noun

: semiformal clothing
gentlemen in black tie for the banquet

Examples of black-tie in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Adjective
For years, the association has presented its annual Golden Watchdog awards gala, a black-tie affair attended by business and political leaders who gather for a night to celebrate effective government spending. Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Mar. 2025 The black-tie event will feature a live auction of luxury goods, experiences and unique art pieces led by auctioneer Simon de Pury. Chris Gardner, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Mar. 2025
Noun
Related Articles Banks’ first encounter with Hepburn at the black tie affair in New York City was not by chance. Rosemary Feitelberg, WWD, 17 Mar. 2025 No matter the dress code—black tie, beach, or anything in between—you’ll find a number to fall in love with Glamour’s wedding guest dress edit. Madeleine Bokan Thares, Glamour, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for black-tie

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1933, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of black-tie was in 1933

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Cite this Entry

“Black-tie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black-tie. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

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