watering hole

noun

Definition of watering holenext
as in pub
a place of business where alcoholic beverages are sold to be consumed on the premises supposedly, that Broadway hangout was the favorite watering hole for 1940s celebrities

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of watering hole For example, drought often concentrates elephants around water and food sources, such as watering holes, where those sick or weakened by starvation are more likely to succumb to the harsh weather conditions, poor water quality, or predators who have taken notice of the herd’s behavior. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 June 2026 At the Bed-Stuy watering hole, Doris, where Spurs fans gathered together to watch game 3, many agreed with the sentiment. — Joan Kennedy, Vogue, 10 June 2026 Making matters worse, her single dad (Sisto) leaves her home alone most nights, drowning his sorrows at the local watering hole. — Marlow Stern, Variety, 8 June 2026 Add in a killer (and vintage) spirits collection and pop-ups hosting the world’s top watering holes? — Virginia Miller, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for watering hole
Recent Examples of Synonyms for watering hole
  1. pub
  2. tavern
  3. saloon
  4. bar
  5. nightclub
Noun
  • The last woman to be executed in Britain, for gunning down her abusive lover outside a London pub more than 70 years ago, will be conditionally pardoned, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said Wednesday.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 8 July 2026
  • Half the fun of this market is visiting the charming community of Kensington, a mini British village with its pub and roundabout.
    — John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 7 July 2026
Definition of pub
Noun
  • The land and tavern that would become Mohonk were purchased by two Quaker brothers named Albert and Alfred Smiley in 1870.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 July 2026
  • At present, Garcia is making Neopolitan, New York, Detroit, New Haven, Chicago tavern, Chicago deep dish and Sicilian pizzas.
    — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
Definition of tavern
Noun
  • Owners can opt for a semi-enclosed galley, which adds a bit of space from the main saloon, or can fully enclose the galley for more separation.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 4 July 2026
  • Old Ebbitt Grill Established in 1856, Old Ebbitt Grill is Washington’s oldest saloon (more like an elevated bistro today), just steps from the White House.
    — Lanee Lee, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
Definition of saloon
Noun
  • Note the wetlands-colored palette of tiles, all soft greens and pinkish browns, along the wall behind the oak bar.
    — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
  • The western part of the neighborhood beyond the train station is primarily residential, but the area around the basilica is home to some upscale hotels, restaurants, and bars.
    — Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2026
Definition of bar
Noun
  • The business in question is stealing Georgia’s nightclub idea, though Charlie maintains that’s not what’s happening because his club won’t have any bowling.
    — Tom Smyth, Vulture, 2 July 2026
  • Three women face charges after allegedly beating up another woman outside an East Texas nightclub in a June 21 attack that appeared to reference Karmelo Anthony, court documents state.
    — Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 2 July 2026
Definition of nightclub

Browse Nearby Words

watering down
watering hole
watering holes
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Watering hole.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/watering%20hole. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on watering hole

Nglish: Translation of watering hole for Spanish Speakers

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