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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There are also several dining options on-site, from the elegant main dining room to the Lion’s Den speakeasy that hosts live music. Laura Itzkowitz, Architectural Digest, 5 Mar. 2025 Downtown For touring performing shows and a secret speakeasy Unlike other major cities, Orlando’s true character is in its diverse neighborhoods, not exclusive to its downtown. Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 5 Mar. 2025 From the same team that redeveloped Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood, Nora spans 156,000 square feet of restaurants, retail, office space, public parks, and (rumor has it) even a private club and speakeasy. Skye Sherman, Travel + Leisure, 4 Mar. 2025 Editors’ Picks Connecting With Nature to Celebrate Black History Month Image To earn a living, Holiday auditioned as a dancer at a speakeasy on West 133rd Street. Josh Ocampo, New York Times, 7 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for speakeasy

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of speakeasy was in 1889

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Speakeasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speakeasy. Accessed 19 Mar. 2025.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!