cocktail party

noun

: an informal or semiformal party or gathering at which cocktails are served

Examples of cocktail party in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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After clearing the electromagnetic wands of security outside of the West Broadway boutique, upward of 80 people mingled during the cocktail party. Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2025 At the Academy Museum cocktail party preceding it, the awards circuit still had its new-car smell; everyone seemed a little more excited to slip into their tuxedos and gravity-defying gowns (or, in the case of Kim Kardashian, a head-encompassing beige silk scarf). Dana Harris-Bridson, IndieWire, 20 Oct. 2025 Alongside countless tastemakers sessions, special screenings and Q&As put on for voters, AMPAS held its reception for new members, while the Golden Globes – a first-timer in 2024 – held a starry cocktail party at the Dorchester Hotel. Alex Ritman, Variety, 17 Oct. 2025 Bundle it with a pack of their favorite IPAs or non-alcoholic spritzes to secure your invite to the next cocktail party. Kristi Kellogg, Architectural Digest, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cocktail party

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cocktail party was in 1903

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Cite this Entry

“Cocktail party.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cocktail%20party. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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