open bar

noun

: a bar (as at a wedding reception) at which drinks are served free compare cash bar

Examples of open bar in a Sentence

They had a buffet and an open bar at the reception.
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.
Signature cocktails Whether a couple chooses an entire open bar or has select alcoholic offerings for guests, a signature cocktail can make the reception even more special. Metro Creative Services, Boston Herald, 19 Oct. 2025 Golf event includes breakfast, open bar at the clubhouse, lunch and awards ceremony. Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Oct. 2025 The shop drew crowds during First Fridays with an open bar and free CBD samples — a sales tactic Sanders would repeat with other products in the years ahead. Kansas City Star, 18 Sep. 2025 The invite-only attendees enjoyed an open bar and pizza with panoramic views of the cityscape, while vibing to music that bumped from late night to early morning. Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for open bar

Word History

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of open bar was in 1947

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Open bar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20bar. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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