Speakeasy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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speakeasy
[ˈspēkēˌēzē ]
Definition
hidden bar
A speakeasy is an informal establishment that illegally sells alcoholic beverages. Their origin dates back to the Prohibition era in the United States, when the sale, production, and transportation of alcoholic drinks were prohibited. In response, these secret bars emerged, often hidden behind legitimate storefronts or in basements. Patrons would use a password to gain entry, and the term 'speakeasy' possibly comes from the practice of patrons speaking quietly or 'easily' to avoid detection. Today, the term is often associated with vintage-style bars that celebrate the ambiance of that era.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- We found a cozy speakeasy hidden behind a bookshelf.
- The speakeasy was decked out in 1920s decor.
- You need a password to enter the exclusive speakeasy.
- They serve the best craft cocktails at that speakeasy.
Translations
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Origin of 'speakeasy'
The term 'speakeasy' originated in the early 20th century during the Prohibition era in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933. The U.S. government instituted a nationwide ban on the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages. In response to this ban, clandestine bars and clubs began operating in secret, allowing patrons to enjoy alcohol despite the legal restrictions. These establishments often required a password for entry, which led to the term 'speakeasy,' derived from the idea of speaking quietly or 'easily' to avoid drawing attention. Speakeasies became cultural hotspots, attracting diverse groups of people and fostering an illicit nightlife filled with jazz music and dancing. After Prohibition was repealed, many of these secret bars closed, but the allure of the speakeasy lingered on, leading to a resurgence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries as vintage-themed bars embraced the nostalgic spirit of that era.