English Reference
noun

booking

n.
US /ˈbʊkɪŋ/ UK /bˈʊkɪŋ/ book·ing UK spelling bookings

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    an arrangement you make to have a room, seat, or table at a specific time.

    a reservation for a service, typically in travel, hospitality, or dining.

    Simple

    We have a booking for a double room under the name Smith.

    In context

    The hotel manager confirmed that the booking had been made online several months in advance to secure the lower seasonal rate.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

    an agreement for a performer or band to play at a show.

    the formal engagement of a performer or artist for a specific event or production.

    Simple

    The band has a booking at the local jazz club this Friday night.

    In context

    Securing a booking at such a prestigious venue was a significant milestone for the young comedian's career.

  3. 03 B1 Intermediate British English Sport

    when a referee writes a player's name in a book to give them a yellow card.

    the formal recording of a player's name by a referee for a foul, typically resulting in a yellow card.

    Simple

    The defender received a booking for a late tackle in the second half.

    In context

    After his second booking of the match, the captain was shown a red card and forced to leave the pitch.

    cautionyellow card
  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate American English Law

    the process of recording a person's details after they are arrested.

    the administrative process of recording the identity, fingerprints, and photographs of a suspect following an arrest.

    Simple

    The suspect was taken to the station for booking and questioning.

    In context

    The booking process took several hours as the officers had to verify the suspect's identity against multiple federal databases.

Our analysis found average ticket prices (excluding booking fees) increased in cash terms from £10 to £12.80.

BBC News· 12 Aug 2026

The agent replied saying it had succeeded by cancelling another gym-goer's booking.

BBC News· 11 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated