# HBO

/ˈeɪtʃbiˈoʊ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hbo
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. television network

noun · CEFR B2 · American English

Stands for Home Box Office. A famous American TV channel known for making high-quality dramas and movies.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Home Box Office. A premium American cable and streaming television network noted for producing high-budget original programming.

- We stayed home on Sunday night to watch the new series on HBO.
- The network's transition to a streaming-first model has allowed HBO to maintain its reputation for prestige television in a competitive digital landscape.

### 2. travel/luggage

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical · British English

Stands for hand baggage only. A type of cheaper plane ticket where you only bring a small bag onto the plane and do not check any large suitcases.

For teachers: Abbreviation for hand baggage only. A fare class in the aviation industry that excludes checked luggage, permitting only carry-on items.

- I saved fifty dollars on my flight by booking an HBO fare.
- Business travellers often prefer HBO fares to avoid the time-consuming process of waiting at the luggage carousel after landing.

Usage: Commonly used in the context of budget airlines and fare comparisons.

## Examples

- We watched the new drama series on HBO last night.
- The network became a household name after HBO produced several award-winning series that changed television history.
- While broadcast networks relied on advertising revenue, HBO pioneered a subscription model that allowed for more mature themes and experimental storytelling without the constraints of traditional commercial breaks.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.