prom

1 of 2

noun

ˈpräm 

1

: a formal dance given by a high school or college class

2

British : promenade sense 2

prom

2 of 2

abbreviation

promontory

Synonyms

Noun

• ball
• cotillion
• cotillon
• dance
• formal
• hop

Examples of prom in a Sentence

Noun

Are you going to the prom?

he resolved to ask her to the school prom at the first opportunity

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

The Intracoastal Waterway property started life as a mid-1950s Phillips 66 gas station, then steadily expanded, adding an eatery and then a resort hotel, and cementing its place as the singular 1960s-era Fort Lauderdale setting to celebrate special events from Mother’s Day to proms to weddings. —Jeffrey Steele, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024

On Wednesday, ’80s songstress Taylor Dayne showed up to perform two songs for Joan Vassos’s first group date, which mimicked a prom night straight out of the John Hughes canon. —Devon Ivie, Vulture, 27 Sep. 2024

Rih put a 2024 spin on the '00s with her updo and choppy baby bangs, paired with a white collared gown and tons of diamonds and pearls—less prom, more couture. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 5 Dec. 2024

Newell wore a strapless pink gown for the occasion, and Bowers’ pink boutonniere complemented his prom date’s dress. —Alexandra Hurtado, People.com, 29 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun

short for promenade entry 2

First Known Use

Noun

1879, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

prom

noun

ˈpräm

: a formal dance given by a high school or college class

Etymology

Noun

a shortened form of promenade "a march by couples at the beginning of a formal ball"