speakeasy

noun

speak·​easy ˈspēk-ˌē-zē How to pronounce speakeasy (audio)
plural speakeasies
Synonyms of speakeasynext
: a place where alcoholic beverages are illegally sold
specifically : such a place during the period of prohibition in the U.S.

Examples of speakeasy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In it, Tomlin takes viewers through a virtual metropolis complete with high-rise apartments, a speakeasy, an aquarium, and a baseball stadium. — Preston Fore, Fortune, 11 Oct. 2026 Milk & Honey Milk & Honey changed what a bar could be and how cocktails were crafted, setting off this century’s speakeasy craze. — Robb Report, 9 Oct. 2026 One of the most intriguing is 1930, which opened in 2013 and quickly gained a reputation as one of Milan's most exclusive speakeasies. — Alessia Armenise, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Oct. 2026 Ask your server to secure you a seat after dinner in the adjacent speakeasy, Bobo. — John Kessler, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for speakeasy

Word History

First Known Use

1829, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of speakeasy was in 1829

Rhymes for speakeasy

See All Rhymes for speakeasy

Browse Nearby Words

speak down
speakeasy
speaker
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Speakeasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/speakeasy. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

speakeasy

noun
speak·​easy ˈspē-ˌkē-zē How to pronounce speakeasy (audio)
plural speakeasies
: a place where alcoholic drinks are illegally sold

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