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 In the late ’70s, Hooper’s movie had made its way from first-run theaters to the threadbare drive-ins of New England. Chris Nashawaty, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Oct. 2024 The burgers will remind you of old-school drive-in style burgers, which is perfect for Pool Burger’s location. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2024 Amenities include a pool, hot tub, food truck and nightly movies at the drive-in theater, popcorn included. Catherine Garcia, theweek, 18 Oct. 2024 What to expect: Smash burgers, hot dogs, fries and ice cream at prices that feel like a throwback to the historic spot's past lives as an actual drive-in just off Highway 7. Torey Van Oot, Axios, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for drive-in 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'drive-in.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above

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

Dictionary Entries Near drive-in

Cite this Entry

“Drive-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drive-in. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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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