tavern
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a place where you can buy alcoholic drinks and sometimes meals.
an establishment where alcoholic beverages are sold for consumption on the premises, often serving food in a rustic or traditional setting.
Simple“We stopped at a small tavern by the road for a drink and some lunch.”
In context“The village tavern served as the primary social hub for the local community, offering a warm atmosphere and locally brewed ales.”
- 02 C1 Advanced
an old-fashioned building where travellers could drink and stay for the night.
a historical establishment providing both alcoholic refreshment and overnight accommodation for travellers.
Simple“The old tavern had small rooms upstairs for people travelling by horse.”
In context“In the eighteenth century, the tavern was an essential stop for the mail coach, providing weary passengers with a hot meal and a bed.”
UsageIn modern English, 'inn' or 'hotel' is preferred for places that provide lodging.
Synonymsinnhostelry
From Middle English taverne, from Old French taverne (“wine shop”), from Latin taberna (“inn”). Doublet of taberna and taverna.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.