speakeasy

noun

speak·​easy ˈspēk-ˌē-zē How to pronounce speakeasy (audio)
plural speakeasies
: a place where alcoholic beverages are illegally sold
specifically : such a place during the period of prohibition in the U.S.

Examples of speakeasy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The cozy interior is blue with pops of orange, creating an elegant speakeasy with nautical whimsy. Taylor McIntyre, Travel + Leisure, 26 May 2024 Free Library — the arrival experience seemed like a speakeasy. Jacques Kelly, Baltimore Sun, 9 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for speakeasy 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'speakeasy.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of speakeasy was in 1889

Dictionary Entries Near speakeasy

speak down

speakeasy

speaker

Cite this Entry

“Speakeasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speakeasy. Accessed 31 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

speakeasy

noun
speak·​easy ˈspē-ˌkē-zē How to pronounce speakeasy (audio)
plural speakeasies
: a place where alcoholic drinks are illegally sold

More from Merriam-Webster on speakeasy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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