Junket: meaning, definitions and examples

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junket

 

[ ˈdʒʌŋkɪt ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

travel experience

A junket is an extravagant trip or celebration, often funded by others. This term frequently implies a sense of indulgence, where attendees enjoy luxury and leisure during their travels. Junkets can be organized for various reasons, including business incentives or promotional events. They are often accompanied by a sense of criticism, especially if funded by public resources. As such, the term can evoke a sense of opulence as well as controversy.

Synonyms

excursion, getaway, jaunt, trip

Examples of usage

  • The executives went on a junket to the Caribbean, funded by the company.
  • Politicians often face scrutiny for attending junkets paid for by lobbyists.
  • The travel agency specializes in organizing luxurious junkets for wealthy clients.

Translations

Translations of the word "junket" in other languages:

🇵🇹 excursão

🇮🇳 पर्यटन

🇩🇪 Vergnügungsreise

🇮🇩 perjalanan wisata

🇺🇦 екскурсія

🇵🇱 wycieczka

🇯🇵 遊びの旅

🇫🇷 excursion

🇪🇸 excursión

🇹🇷 gezi

🇰🇷 여행

🇸🇦 رحلة ترفيهية

🇨🇿 výlet

🇸🇰 výlet

🇨🇳 游览

🇸🇮 izlet

🇮🇸 ferð

🇰🇿 сапар

🇬🇪 მოგზაურობა

🇦🇿 səyahət

🇲🇽 excursión

Word origin

The word 'junket' has its roots in the Middle English term 'jonket,' referring to a sweet cake or dessert, derived from the Old French word 'jonquete.' It originally referred to a feast or banquet, which included lavish food and drink. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass the broader concept of an extravagant trip, particularly one that is financed by someone else, often in a professional or corporate context. The transition in usage reflects societal attitudes towards lavish spending and the enjoyment of perks that can come with certain positions, particularly in businesses and government. By the late 19th century, 'junket' became associated with trips taken by officials and business people, often sparking discussions about ethics and accountability.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,565 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.