black-and-tan

1 of 2

adjective

ˌbla-kən-ˈtan 

1

of a dog's coat : having a predominantly black color pattern with deep red or rusty tan usually on the feet, breeching, and cheek patches, above the eyes, and inside the ears

2

or Black-and-Tan dated, US politics : favoring or practicing proportional representation of Black and white people in politics compare lily-white sense 3

3

US, dated : frequented by both Black and white people

a black-and-tan bar

black and tan

2 of 2

noun

1

: a black-and-tan dog

2

: a drink consisting of a dark beer (such as stout or porter) and ale or beer of a paler color

3

Black and Tan [from the color of his uniform] : a recruit enlisted in England in 1920–21 for service in the Royal Irish Constabulary against the armed movement for Irish independence

Examples of black-and-tan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

In another clip, Klum tries on a black-and-tan bodysuit and black leather jacket. —Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 26 Nov. 2025

The Slipper chair in black-and-tan pinstripes captures the sophisticated yet eclectic aesthetic that the interior designers are known for. —Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 1 Sep. 2025

Noun

One, a special Mercedes-Maybach S-class S 680 painted in black and tan, was revealed shortly after Abloh’s death in 2021. —Peter Valdes-Dapena, CNN Money, 6 Jan. 2026

Neutral black and tan bags are timeless wardrobe staples that look put-together while keeping your phone, wallet, and laptop organized. —Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 2 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for black-and-tan

• businessman
• canavan
• caravan
• constantan
• dragoman
• fisherman
• handyman
• harmattan
• journeyman
• marianne
• middleman
• minivan