cocktail hour

noun

1. the interval before the evening meal during which cocktails and other alcoholic beverages are often served.

Word History and Origins

Origin of cocktail hour¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

The idea that these corporations place profit above health is not just a cocktail hour talking point gleaned from some book review – it is deeply ingrained in the community’s memory.

From Salon

Lounging in green velvet club chairs next to a glistening marble bar, they relax and connect with co-workers at day’s end over a complimentary cocktail hour and live comedy show at comedian Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat studios in West Hollywood.

From Los Angeles Times

Youth and experience attend the same cocktail hour, and both leave early — one, to not miss the last bus to the Eastside; the other, to be well rested for 7 a.m. hot Pilates.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s going to be the R.N.C. live from Cell Block B with a keynote speech from his warden, his cellmate Spider, that one guard who smuggles in cellphones up his butt, and, for the cocktail hour, enjoy complimentary toilet wine.”

From New York Times

Youth and experience attend the same cocktail hour, and both leave early — one, to not miss the last bus to the Eastside; the other, to be well rested for 7 a.m. hot Pilates.

From Los Angeles Times