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Hobnobbed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hobnobbed

[ˈhɒbˌnɒbd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

social interaction

Hobnobbed means to spend time in a friendly way, especially with people of higher social status. It often implies mingling in a casual, social setting, suggesting a level of intimacy or comfort among acquaintances.

Synonyms

associate, fraternize, mingle, socialize.

Examples of usage

  • She hobnobbed with the celebrities at the gala.
  • They love to hobnob during the annual charity event.
  • He was known for hobnobbing with influential politicians.
  • At the conference, many attendees hobnobbed over coffee break.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'hobnobbed'

The term 'hobnob' originated in the mid-18th century, derived from the phrase 'to hob and nob,' which means 'to drink together.' The word 'hob' here is thought to refer to a country bumpkin or a rustic, while 'nob' refers to a person of high social standing or nobility. This duality reflects the original meaning of the term, indicating social mingling across different classes. Over time, hobnobbing has evolved from its initial context of drinking together to encompass a broader idea of socializing and networking, particularly among those in elite circles. The playful nature of the word has made it popular in informal contexts, often evoking an image of lighthearted banter and camaraderie at social gatherings.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,341, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.