# pub

/ˈpəb/ (US) · /pˈʌb/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pub
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. a bar or public house

noun · CEFR A2 · British English

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

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

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

### 3. a publication

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Informal

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

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

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

## Examples

- We are meeting at the pub for a drink.
- The local pub serves a traditional roast dinner every Sunday afternoon for the neighborhood families.
- While modern bars often focus on music and cocktails, the traditional pub remains a cornerstone of British social life, prioritizing conversation and local ales.

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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.