silent auction

noun

: an auction in which sealed bids are submitted beforehand

Examples of silent auction in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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There will also be a silent auction with around a dozen items. Myrna Petlicki, Chicago Tribune, 18 Apr. 2025 Hamburgers and fries will be available for purchase and a silent auction will be held. Meghan Davy Sandvold, Twin Cities, 8 Feb. 2025 The black tie optional Soaring Strings celebrates Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra’s 47th season via a silent auction with online bidding, The CoverGirls Violin Show, cocktails at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. and music and dancing until 10:30 p.m. on April 26. Jessi Virtusio, Chicago Tribune, 6 Apr. 2025 Guests will experience an inspiring evening filled with stunning abstract and watercolor art, a silent auction, fine wine from Ponzi Vineyards, and delectable appetizers, all while connecting with fellow art lovers and community leaders, according to a news release. Dawn Giangiulio, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for silent auction

Word History

First Known Use

1866, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of silent auction was in 1866

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Cite this Entry

“Silent auction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/silent%20auction. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

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