# Tony

/ˈtoʊni/ (US) · /tˈəʊni/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tony
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. stylish and expensive

adjective · CEFR B2 · Informal · American English

very stylish, fashionable, and expensive in a way that shows high social status.

For teachers: characterised by an upscale, stylish, or high-toned quality. Informal in register and primarily used in North American contexts.

- They stayed at a tony hotel in the center of the city where the rooms cost a fortune.
- The developer transformed the old warehouse district into a tony neighborhood filled with high-end boutiques and exclusive art galleries.

Usage: Usually placed before the noun it describes.

Teaching tip: This is a common word in American lifestyle journalism and real estate writing to describe wealthy areas or venues.

### 2. theatre award

noun · CEFR B2 · American English

a famous award given every year for the best plays and musicals in the United States.

For teachers: Any of the annual awards presented by the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League for excellence in live Broadway theatre.

- The new musical won a Tony for best costume design last night.
- After decades of performing in small regional theatres, the actress finally received a Tony for her leading role in the revival of the classic drama.

Usage: Always capitalized as it is a proper noun.

Teaching tip: Explain to students that this is the theatre equivalent of an Oscar (film) or a Grammy (music).

## Examples

- They stayed at a very tony hotel near the park.
- The neighborhood is known for its tony boutiques and expensive art galleries that cater to the city's elite.
- While the rest of the district remains industrial, this specific street has been transformed by tony developments and high-end bistros aimed at young professionals.

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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.