saloon bar

A man enjoys a drink at the saloon bar.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A more comfortable bar in a British pub: "saloon bar" refers to a section of a British public house (pub) that is more luxurious, quieter, and often more expensive than the main bar area (called the "public bar"). It typically has better furnishings, more privacy, and serves higher-quality drinks.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • He preferred to sit in the saloon bar because it was less crowded and had softer chairs. (A more comfortable, quieter area of a pub.)
  • The saloon bar charges slightly more for the same beer than the public bar. (A section of a pub with higher prices and better amenities.)

Advanced Usage

• "saloon bar" in historical context: In 19th and early 20th century Britain, the saloon bar was a middle-class or upper-class area, often separate from the working-class public bar. It might have had carpets, mirrors, and a fireplace.
  • In Victorian times, the saloon bar was reserved for gentlemen and their families. (A historically exclusive section of a pub.)

Variants and Related Words

• Saloon (n): a large room or building where alcoholic drinks are sold, especially in the American Old West; also a type of car (saloon car).
  • The cowboy walked into the saloon for a drink. (A Western-style bar.)
• Bar (n): a counter where drinks are served, or the establishment itself.
  • She ordered a drink at the bar. (The serving counter.)
• Public bar (n): the main, less expensive, and more basic area of a British pub.
  • He went to the public bar to meet his friends. (The cheaper section of a pub.)

Synonyms

• Lounge bar: a similar concept in some British pubs, often interchangeable with "saloon bar."
  • We sat in the lounge bar because it had a quieter atmosphere. (A comfortable bar area.)
• Private bar: a bar section with restricted access or higher prices.
  • The hotel had a private bar for guests only. (An exclusive bar area.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Bar up: to close a bar or secure it with bars.
  • The bartender barred up the saloon bar after closing time. (Locked or secured the bar area.)

Related Idioms

• No holds barred: without any restrictions or rules (not directly related to "saloon bar," but shares the word "bar").
  • The negotiations were no holds barred. (Unrestricted and intense.)
• Behind bars: in prison (uses "bars" as in a jail cell).
  • The criminal was put behind bars. (Imprisoned.)