Definition

Noun: A social gathering, typically held in the late afternoon or early evening, where cocktails and other alcoholic drinks are served, along with light refreshments. It is characterized by its relatively short duration and is often intended for conversation and networking.

Usage

A "cocktail party" is a specific type of social event. It is used to describe the event itself. - The company is hosting a cocktail party to celebrate the new partnership. - We met at a mutual friend's cocktail party last year.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "Cocktail party effect": A psychological term describing the brain's ability to focus one's auditory attention on a particular stimulus while filtering out a range of other stimuli, as when one can focus on a single conversation in a noisy room like a cocktail party.
  • The cocktail party effect demonstrates our remarkable selective hearing.

Variants and Related Words

• Cocktail (noun): A mixed alcoholic drink.
  • He ordered a classic martini cocktail.
• Party (noun): A social gathering of invited guests.
  • We're having a small dinner party.

Synonyms

• Reception: A formal social occasion held to welcome someone or celebrate an event.
• Soirée: An evening party or gathering, often in a private house.

Related Phrases

• Cocktail attire / Cocktail dress code: A semi-formal style of dress expected at such events.
  • The invitation requested cocktail attire.
• Cocktail hour: The time, often early evening, when such parties are typically held; also used to describe a period before a dinner event when drinks are served.
  • The wedding ceremony will be followed by a cocktail hour.

Noun

1. an afternoon party at which cocktails are served