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.
Image With a lineup of readers and an open bar, Mr. Gordon invited around 60 of his friends to fete his book. Charles W. McFarlane, New York Times, 26 Mar. 2025 Pearl Cove Beach Club will offer beachfront daybeds, private cabanas and Super Villas, each of which includes access to the club’s open bar service, infinity pool, full-service restaurant and beachfront. Vinod Sreeharsha, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025 The party went until around 3 a.m. local time, with an open bar, fresh pizzas and the tavern's specialties being served. Skyler Caruso, People.com, 11 Feb. 2025 The studio is transformed into a multi-faceted club experience with a red carpet, open bar and an array of brand activations from Ole Henriksen, Casamigo, Hendrick’s, Moët & Chandon, Whispering Angel, Rock Angel, Evian, White Claw, Q Mixers, Red Bull, PRIME and Michelob Ultra. Rob Reed, Forbes, 21 Jan. 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 12 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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