bartender

American  

[bahr-ten-der] / ˈbɑrˌtɛn dər /

noun

1. a person who mixes and serves alcoholic drinks at a bar.

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bartender British  

/ ˈbɑːˌtɛndə /

noun

1. a person who serves in a bar

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Etymology

Origin of bartender

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40; bar ¹ + tender ³

Explanation

A bartender is a person who mixes, pours, and serves drinks from behind a bar. The bartender at a bar mitzvah may spend hours putting little paper umbrellas in Shirley Temples for the young guests. If you work as a bartender, you need to know how to mix cocktails, pour wine and beer, and keep the bar tidy. Most bartenders don't make a high hourly wage, but depend on tips to make a good living. Many events, like wedding receptions and big parties, include a bartender. The word itself dates from the early 19th century, from bar, which comes from the barrier or counter over which drinks are served, and tender, or "seller."

Example Sentences

That means a bartender fills the glass most of the way, sets it down for about 90 seconds to allow the nitrogen bubbles to settle, and then finally tops it off.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Andrew Hall, 24, works as a bartender and waiter at a restaurant in Guildford, Surrey, and says he struggles to make ends meet each month.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

The cocktail program, developed by third-generation bartender Sean Kenyon, is inspired by the songs created by musicians who’ve graced the Hollywood Palladium stage.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

I asked for water and the bartender pointed me toward a drinking fountain and some plastic cups.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 6, 2026

Today my favorite bartender, Lady Raven, is on duty.

From "The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman" by Gennifer Choldenko