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 cost is $85 per person, which includes dinner, a four-hour open bar and competitive dance performance. Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 27 Jan. 2026 Super Bowl 2025 ticket prices On Location has official Super Bowl tickets that are guaranteed by the NFL and are included as part of packages with options like open bars, tailgate food and pregame parties. Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 25 Jan. 2026 An advertisement for the social promoted an open bar, buffet-style dinner and premium cigars for a flat $150 entry fee. Rocco Parascandola, New York Daily News, 23 Jan. 2026 Lastly, Gabree says another huge selling point is the Free at Sea promotion, which comes with perks like specialty dining, an unlimited open bar, Wi-Fi, excursion credits, and more. Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 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 31 Jan. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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