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 festivities will include live music, food and open bars in one of South Florida’s most picturesque urban locales on the New River. Ben Crandell, Sun Sentinel, 8 Apr. 2026 The hardscape design take backyard meals to the next level by having the grill built into the countertops that extend in an L-shape to a semi-open bar. Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 7 Apr. 2026 The social featured an open bar, buffet-style dinner and premium cigars. Colin Mixson, New York Daily News, 26 Mar. 2026 The event, which cost $65 per person, includes a buffet, open bar, NCAA regional championship games on big screens, silent auction, games and raffles. Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026 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 13 Apr. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster