bartender

[bahr-ten-der] / ˈbɑrˌtɛn dər /

NOUN

one who serves drinks at a bar

Synonyms

STRONGEST

barkeep barkeeper mixologist tapster

STRONG

alewife barmaid barman publican tapper taverner victualler

WEAK

boniface butler soda jerk steward vintner

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Bring it on,” he’ll say when a bartender asks him if he wants a flower with his cocktail, anticipating once again that perfect blend of color, scent and taste.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Andrew Hall, 24, works as a bartender and waiter at a restaurant in Guildford, Surrey, and says he struggles to make ends meet each month.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

The cocktail program, developed by third-generation bartender Sean Kenyon, is inspired by the songs created by musicians who’ve graced the Hollywood Palladium stage.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

Two middle-aged Americans, matching orange ringlets marking them as brothers, quizzed the bartender about cask types and chill filtration.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 16, 2026

“I suppose my memory just isn’t what it used to be,” the bartender said.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee