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Tavern Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tavern

[ˈtævərn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

a place for socializing

A tavern is a place where people gather to drink alcoholic beverages, socialize, and sometimes eat. Taverns are often cozy, welcoming establishments that provide a casual atmosphere for friends and strangers to come together.

Synonyms

bar, inn, pub.

Examples of usage

  • People often meet at the local tavern after work for a drink and conversation.
  • The tavern was bustling with laughter and music on Friday night.
Context #2 | Noun

historical context

In historical contexts, a tavern was an establishment that offered lodging, food, and drink to travelers. Taverns played a crucial role in providing hospitality and sustenance to weary travelers on long journeys.

Synonyms

alehouse, hostelry, public house.

Examples of usage

  • Pilgrims would seek shelter and refreshment at the taverns along their pilgrimage routes.
  • Taverns in medieval times served as important hubs for information exchange and community building.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Taverns have been social hubs for centuries, where communities gather, share stories, and celebrate events.
  • In some cultures, taverns are central to local traditions, often hosting music, dancing, and regional festivities.
  • They have appeared in literature as places of intrigue, adventure, and character development, contributing to storytelling.

Historical Context

  • In early colonial America, taverns served not only as eating and drinking establishments but also as meeting places for local governments.
  • The famous Boston Tea Party began in a tavern, highlighting their role in political conversations and revolutionary ideas.
  • European taverns often displayed signs indicating quality, with various colored symbols that communicated the type of drinks available.

Modern Relevance

  • Today, taverns have diversified into restaurants and bars, but many retain traditional elements, such as cozy interiors and communal dining.
  • Craft beer has revitalized the tavern experience, focusing on local brews and seasonal ingredients, fostering a new kind of socialization.
  • Virtual taverns have emerged with online gaming, where players gather in digital spaces to chat and interact, mirroring physical tavern life.

Origin of 'tavern'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tavern' comes from the Latin word 'taberna,' meaning a shed or a workshop.
  • In medieval times, 'tavern' referred specifically to a place where travelers could find food and drink, often providing a bed for the night.
  • The term has evolved over the centuries to include public houses and inns, reflecting changing social customs.

The word 'tavern' originated from the Latin word 'taberna', which initially referred to a shed or hut. Over time, the meaning evolved to represent a place where people could gather for food, drink, and socializing. Taverns have a long history dating back to ancient civilizations, where they served as meeting places for travelers and locals alike.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,584, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.