Barman - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

job title

A barman is a person who serves alcoholic drinks at a bar. They are responsible for mixing, garnishing, and serving drinks to customers. Barmen often have a significant role in the atmosphere of a bar, engaging with patrons and making recommendations based on their preferences. In many establishments, the barman also manages the inventory of drinks and keeps the bar area clean and organized.

Synonyms

bartender, drink server, mixologist.

Examples of usage

The barman expertly mixed the cocktails for the party.
After a long day, I like to unwind at the local bar where the barman remembers my order.
He applied for a job as a barman to gain experience in the hospitality industry.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, the role of a barman is central to social gatherings, acting as a conversationalist and facilitator of community.
In British pubs, barmen are often depicted as key figures in local culture, known for their knowledge of beer and local gossip.
Movies and literature frequently portray barmen as confidants to the characters, making them essential in storytelling.

Pop Culture

Bartending competitions, such as the World Cocktail Championships, celebrate the skills and artistry of barmen worldwide.
Famous TV shows like 'Cheers' and 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' highlight the barman's role with charismatic characters and humor, drawing viewers into bar culture.
The classic cocktail drink 'Old Fashioned' has seen a resurgence due to the popularity of mixology and the image of the skilled barman.

History

The profession dates back to ancient civilizations, where establishments served wine and beer, requiring someone to manage the drinks.
In the USA, the Prohibition era (1920-1933) changed the landscape of the bar scene, forcing many barmen to adapt to secretive speakeasies.
As bartending techniques evolved, the role of barmen transitioned from simple servers to skilled mixologists, crafting innovations in drink recipes.

Psychology

Interactions with barmen can serve as a social outlet for customers, providing them with a chance to release stress and connect with others.
Studies show that regular visits to bars may foster a sense of belonging, attributed partly to the friendly service from barmen.
Research indicates that the environment a barman creates can significantly affect patrons' moods, making them feel at home or relaxed.

Origin of 'barman'

Main points about word origin

The word 'barman' combines 'bar' from the Middle English word 'bare', meaning a counter, with 'man', indicating a male worker.
Initially, terms like 'barmaid' existed, reflecting traditional gender roles in hospitality, but 'barman' became widely accepted for males.
In some regions, 'bartender' is a gender-neutral term that has become more popular in recent years.

The term 'barman' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the combination of 'bar', referring to an establishment where alcoholic beverages are served, and 'man', indicating a male employee or worker. The role of the barman evolved alongside the social significance of pubs and bars in society; as these establishments became central to social interaction, so too did the responsibilities and skill set of the barman. In the United States, the term 'bartender' is more commonly used, but 'barman' retains its usage in various English-speaking countries. Historically, barmen were essential for creating a welcoming atmosphere, often developing relationships with regular customers, thus impacting the culture of drinking establishments. Over time, the craft of mixing drinks has gained recognition, leading to the rise of expert mixologists, who are often considered artists in their field.

Barman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations