drive-in

noun

: an establishment (such as a theater or restaurant) so laid out that patrons can be accommodated while remaining in their automobiles
drive-in adjective

Examples of drive-in 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.
Their ‘drive-in’ movie theater with classic cars and great movies is unique, fun, and nostalgic. Sarah Bruning, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025 The fast food chain, known for its drive-in model, has more than 3,000 restaurants in 47 states around the country. Melina Khan, USA Today, 2 July 2025 The Unicorn Dreams Slush and Legendary Wish-Awakening Unicorn Horn Straw are not eligible for Happy Hour Anytime in the app, Happy Hour at drive-ins, Morning Drink Stop or other discounts. Chris Sims, IndyStar, 2 July 2025 In brief, the car itself may become the drive-in theater. Deni Ellis Béchard, Scientific American, 22 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for drive-in

Word History

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of drive-in was in 1931

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Cite this Entry

“Drive-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drive-in. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

drive-in

noun
ˈdrī-ˌvin
: a business (as a movie theater or restaurant) set up so that customers can be served or provided for while remaining in their automobiles
drive-in adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on drive-in

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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