happy hour

noun

: a period of time during which the price of drinks (as at a bar) is reduced or hors d'oeuvres are served free

Examples of happy hour in a Sentence

Happy hour runs from 5:00 to 7:00.
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.
But our scouting team of editors observed that this year, hospitality pros are not phoning it in at lunch, happy hour, or even that late-afternoon slump. The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026 There’s a graciousness that runs through these evenings spent with their friends at dinners and happy hours before meals out, with each moment spent together as much a cause for celebration as the event itself. Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 21 Aug. 2026 The Montford Park spot will serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, plus a happy hour menu. Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 20 Aug. 2026 Every Thursday night, London filmgoers will be invited to start their evening with a 63-minute happy hour, showcasing a menu of Singani 63 cocktails. Leo Barraclough, Variety, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for happy hour

Word History

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of happy hour was in 1951

Cite this Entry

“Happy hour.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/happy%20hour. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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