speakeasy

noun

speak·​easy ˈspēk-ˌē-zē How to pronounce speakeasy (audio)
plural speakeasies
Synonyms of speakeasynext
: 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.
Couples will find plenty to appeal—especially cocktails at the speakeasy 80 Proof, an elegant steak dinner at Steadfire, and evening stargazing with wine and charcuterie. — Lindsay Cohn, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026 The backstory Everything started in Paris back in 2007 with the Experimental Cocktail Club, a speakeasy-style bar inspired by the craft cocktail revivals happening in New York City and London. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026 The two of them crafted a business plan for a bookstore, one that wouldn’t look out of place in a sword and sorcery fantasy novel, with a hidden speakeasy. — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026 Inside a Coatesville, Pennsylvania, teenager's home, an elevator ride leads to flickering lights, sudden screams and a 1930s-style speakeasy. — Wakisha Bailey, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for speakeasy

Word History

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of speakeasy was in 1829

Rhymes for speakeasy

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Browse Nearby Words

speak down
speakeasy
speaker
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Speakeasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speakeasy. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

speakeasy

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

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