receiving line

noun

1. a row formed by the hosts, guests of honor, or the like, for receiving guests formally at a ball, reception, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of receiving line¹

An Americanism dating back to 1930–35

Example Sentences

As he and his wife Jill shook hands of those waiting for him in a long receiving line leading to the waiting pontiff, he said, “It’s good to be back.”

From The Daily Beast

We were in the receiving line, and people were coming through, and they were making small talk.

From The Daily Beast

I stood next to him once in a receiving line, and was amazed at his memory for names and faces.

From The Daily Beast

Another recent flap involved the White House receiving line.

From The Daily Beast

Her eyes were playing up and down the receiving line, a world of veiled contempt in their blue depths.

From Project Gutenberg

When they had won clear of the receiving line, Leila indulged in a subdued ripple of laughter.

From Project Gutenberg

The year before, at a White House reception, he had singled her out to stand at his side in the receiving line.

From Project Gutenberg

Having passed the receiving line, the Westons held a small reception of their own.

From Project Gutenberg

The ten old men of the receiving line were drawn up in battle array, in all the glory of their best clothes.

From Project Gutenberg