bow tie

noun

ˈbō- How to pronounce bow tie (audio)
1
: a short necktie tied in a bowknot
2
: something (such as pasta) resembling a bow tie in shape

Examples of bow tie 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.
Dressed in a sharp black three-piece suit and a dapper yellow bow tie, Lubelo Mthenjana stands alone on a dark stage, taking in the last few seconds of quiet before the curtain opens. — Julie Bourdin, NPR, 25 Oct. 2026 The groom stepped up to the formality of the ceremony with a double-breasted wool suit from The Row, a Zegna tuxedo shirt and bow tie, and Givenchy derby shoes with a square toe. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2026 In a departure from the typical tux, George sported a navy suit, adding a bow tie and a crisp white button-down, along with some black leather derby shoes. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 9 Oct. 2026 This is the second British hotel by the brand behind the Orient Express, and although traces of those trains can be found in the doorman’s redcoats and the receptionist’s bow tie, this is not the sort of place that requires a gown for dinner. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bow tie

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bow tie was in 1890

Rhymes for bow tie

See All Rhymes for bow tie

Browse Nearby Words

bow thruster
bow tie
bow trolley
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bow tie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bow%20tie. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bow tie

noun
: a short necktie tied in a bow
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