white-tie

adjective

ˈ(h)wīt-ˈtī How to pronounce white-tie (audio)
variants or less commonly white tie
Synonyms of white-tienext
: characterized by or requiring the wearing of formal evening clothes consisting of white bow tie and tailcoat for men and a formal gown for women
a white-tie dinner
compare black-tie

Examples of white-tie 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.
The traditional white-tie dinner and dance, held Dec. 28, remains one of the most prestigious stages for the young scions of worldwide cultural and political leaders. — Kristen Tauer, WWD, 30 Dec. 2024 The Swan Ball, Nashville's grandest white-tie gala, returned for its 62nd year on Saturday, June 1, with a garden party theme at Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. — Larawn Scaife Rhea, The Tennessean, 2 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of white-tie was in 1876

Browse Nearby Words

white-tie
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Cite this Entry

“White-tie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/white-tie. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

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