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

Evan and Alyse Middleton were sitting at a table at On the Rocks outdoor tavern, watching dancers and listening to music during the festival. —Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 1 June 2026

The tavern sits on the corner of 26th Street and Prospect. —Kansas City Star, 1 June 2026

Many more friends and tavern regulars crowded into the room to find out how the board would vote with regard to Plyler’s agreement. —Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 May 2026

Taverna della Gelosia Sambati loves this rustic tavern in Ostuni’s old town. —Elizabeth Heath, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 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