black-tie

1 of 2

adjective

variants or less commonly black tie
Synonyms of black-tienext
: characterized by or requiring the wearing of semiformal evening clothes consisting of a usually black tie and tuxedo for men and a formal dress for women
a black-tie dinner
compare white-tie

black tie

2 of 2

noun

: semiformal clothing
gentlemen in black tie for the banquet

Examples of black-tie 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.
Adjective
That is, before an actual tornado sweeps through Pine Valley, right in the middle of a black-tie event and in time to boost summer ratings. Literary Hub, 3 June 2026 An icy blue halter dress can be dressed up with kitten heels and glitzy jewelry for your ceremony, and re-styled with fresh accessories for a black-tie event like a gala or an opera opening months from now. Rosie Jarman, Vogue, 29 May 2026
Noun
Firth wore a classic black suit with a white shirt and black tie. Meg Walters, InStyle, 6 June 2026 Her husband, Campbell, 54, wore a white tuxedo jacket with black pants and a black tie. Rachel McRady, PEOPLE, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for black-tie

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1933, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of black-tie was in 1933

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Black-tie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black-tie. Accessed 7 Jun. 2026.

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