tavern

noun

tav·​ern ˈta-vərn 

1

: an establishment where alcoholic beverages are sold to be drunk on the premises

2

: inn

Synonyms of tavern

• pub
• saloon
• bar

Examples of tavern in a Sentence

a seedy section of the city's waterfront that was rife with cheap taverns, tattoo parlors, and run-down flophouses

a colonial-era tavern that has been serving weary travelers for two and a half centuries

Recent Examples on the Web

So do not assume that an upcoming three-day event taking place at three notable Chicago taverns has anything to do with Algren’s fondness for alcohol. — Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune, 15 Sep. 2026

The old tavern sign, which used to feature a portrait of King George III, now sports the image of another George—George Washington. — Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2026

That same desire for warmth and color is fueling a vintage tavern lighting trend. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 11 Sep. 2026

Wine has been part of Vienna for centuries, and its tavern culture has deep roots of its own. — Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 9 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English taverne, from Anglo-French, from Latin taberna hut, shop

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for tavern

• cavern

Kids Definition

tavern

noun

tav·​ern ˈtav-ərn 

1

: an establishment where alcoholic liquors are sold to be drunk on the premises

2

: inn