black-tie

1 of 2

adjective

ˈblak-ˌtī 

variants or less commonly black tie

: 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

Adjective

But what if there are female grooms-people at a black-tie affair? — Judith Martin, Mercury News, 24 Aug. 2026

The black-tie gala dinner will also feature a live auction of contemporary artworks and experiences. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 21 Aug. 2026

Noun

On July 4, the Step Brothers actor shared a photo of him suiting up with fellow actor Paul Rudd and his wife Julie Yaeger before the black tie ceremony. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 24 Aug. 2026

Davis, Julius and Genesis got all dressed up in their best black tie attire for a gala in December 2023. — Andrea Wurzburger, PEOPLE, 11 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1933, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1951, in the meaning defined above