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

Joseph Brewster turned the house into a tavern and store during the War for Independence when it was frequented by British soldiers stationed in the area. —Catherine Sabino, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

And countless taverns, restaurants, schools and other gathering spots will host viewing parties and other activities. —Kristy Hutchings, Daily News, 10 June 2026

The 167‑room property, sister to the boutiquey Marias Platzl across the Isar, offers modern rooms over its own Bavarian tavern, where the kitchen turns out some of the best food in town and pours several NA beers. —David Dickstein, Oc Register, 10 June 2026

How Every Year After ends Nearly a year later, Percy decides to keep ownership of the tavern, and is deep in renovations with her friend Delilah (Abigail Cowen), who’s designing the new interior. —Barry Levitt, Time, 10 June 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