1
: a short necktie tied in a bowknot
2
: something (such as pasta) resembling a bow tie in shape

Examples of bow 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.
Set the scene Two six-foot pink elephants hover above a red awning, decked out in top hats and dapper bow ties. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Sep. 2026 George, who received a lifetime achievement award that evening, opted for a classic black tuxedo and black bow tie. Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 3 Sep. 2026 George, meanwhile, suited up in a simple black tux and bow tie to receive the festival’s Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement award. Hannah Malach, InStyle, 3 Sep. 2026 The second suspect is described as having braids that extend past his waist who was wearing an orange-and-white Von Dutch ball cap, a dress shirt with a bow tie, white suspenders, dress pants, and patent leather dress shoes. Dan Raby, CBS News, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bow tie

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bow tie was in 1890

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bow tie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bow%20tie. Accessed 11 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

bow tie

noun
: a short necktie tied in a bow
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