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.
The Grammy winner will open bar and entertainment venue Redemption Bar, located on the fifth floor of Eric Church‘s six-story Chief’s venue. Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 1 Aug. 2025 Access to this area starts at $79.99 per adult and costs more for open bar or all-inclusive access. Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 July 2025 Live music and an open bar kept the energy pumping. Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 18 July 2025 Cruisers can feast on a multi-course buffet dinner and enjoy a premium open bar, while enjoying stunning views of the Manhattan skyline during the three-hour sail. Karu F. Daniels, New York Daily News, 26 June 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

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Cite this Entry

“Open bar.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20bar. Accessed 8 Aug. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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