red-carpet

1 of 2

adjective

red-car·​pet ˈred-ˈkär-pət How to pronounce red-carpet (audio)
Synonyms of red-carpetnext
: marked by ceremonial courtesy
red-carpet treatment

red carpet

2 of 2

noun

: a greeting or reception marked by ceremonial courtesy
—usually used in the phrase roll out the red carpet

Examples of red-carpet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Similar to her Oscar de la Renta look at Swift's wedding, Gomez's red-carpet dress was dripping in shimmering crystals. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 5 July 2026 In addition to her acting talents, Brown has made a name for herself in the fashion world thanks to her '80s wardrobe on Stranger Things and her stylish IRL red-carpet looks. — Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026
Noun
Their relationship gradually entered public consciousness, between Instagram posts, joint appearances at red carpet events and tidbits about their romance in various interviews. — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026 As Zendaya’s big year continues to unfold, countless eyes will be awaiting her slew of red carpet looks — and FN will be looking out for her trusty pumps. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for red-carpet

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

from the traditional laying down of a red carpet for important guests to walk on

First Known Use

Adjective

1947, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of red-carpet was in 1934

Rhymes for red-carpet

See All Rhymes for red-carpet

Browse Nearby Words

red carp
red-carpet
red carpet
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Red-carpet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/red-carpet. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

red-carpet

adjective
red-car·​pet
-ˈkär-pət
: marked by ceremonial courtesy
red-carpet treatment

More from Merriam-Webster on red-carpet

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