English Reference
noun

pub

n.
US /ˈpəb/ UK /pˈʌb/ pub UK spelling pub's, pub's

  1. 01 A2 Elementary British English

    a place where you can buy drinks, especially beer, and often food.

    an establishment licensed to sell alcoholic drinks, traditionally serving as a community social centre in British and Irish culture.

    Simple

    We met our friends at the local pub for a drink after work.

    In context

    The village pub remains the heart of the community, providing a space where residents of all ages gather for Sunday lunch and conversation.

    Usage

    Often used with the definite article 'the' when referring to one's local or regular establishment.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced AcademicInformal

    a short way of saying 'publication', like a book or a report.

    a clipping of 'publication', used to refer to a printed or digital work.

    Simple

    The professor asked for a list of my recent pubs for the application.

    In context

    The researcher's CV was impressive, boasting several high-impact pubs in prestigious medical journals over the last decade.

    Usage

    Commonly used in academic or professional contexts when discussing a bibliography or list of works.


Etymology 1

Clipping of public house.

Etymology 2

Clipping of public server.

Etymology 3

Clipping of publication.

Etymology 4

Clipping of publish.

Etymology 5

Clipping of publisher.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated