receiving line

noun

: a group of people who stand in a line and individually welcome guests (as at a wedding reception)

Examples of receiving line in a Sentence

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.
Bad ankle and all, Ellis happily signed every sheet of paper foisted upon him in the Crown Heights community center, posed for every selfie and dapped up every fan until his postgame receiving line finally disappeared. Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 3 Sep. 2019 The tensions later surfaced publicly during a White House holiday party where the First Lady was notably absent from the receiving line when the Pelosi family greeted the President. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025 On Tuesday evening, she is expected to pose for group photos but will take a short break when guests are greeted in a receiving line before dinner. Catherine Nicholls, CNN, 3 Dec. 2024 American leaders have been shot at close range and long range, indoors and outdoors, from sniper nests in high buildings and from the apparently friendly surroundings of a receiving line. Washington Post Staff, Washington Post, 14 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for receiving line 

Word History

First Known Use

1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of receiving line was in 1933

Dictionary Entries Near receiving line

Cite this Entry

“Receiving line.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/receiving%20line. Accessed 16 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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