Definition

Noun: A formal or elegant evening party, typically held in a private home. A soiree implies a social gathering in the evening characterized by conversation, music, or other entertainment, often with a sophisticated or cultured atmosphere.

Usage

The word "soiree" is used to describe a specific type of evening social event. It is more formal than a casual "party" and suggests a degree of planning, refinement, and often a specific purpose like listening to music or engaging in intellectual discussion. - It is commonly preceded by adjectives like "musical," "literary," "elegant," or "small." - It is often used with verbs like "host," "attend," "hold," or "invite to."

Examples

• Noun:
  • They hosted an intimate musical soiree for close friends.
  • The ambassador's soiree was attended by many dignitaries.
  • We have been invited to a soiree at the professor's house this Saturday evening.

Advanced Usage

• "Musical soiree": An evening gathering where the main activity is listening to or performing music.
  • The pianist performed Chopin at a private musical soiree.
• "Literary soiree": An evening gathering focused on literature, poetry readings, or book discussions.
  • The author read excerpts from her new novel at a literary soiree.

Variants and Related Words

• Soirée: An alternative spelling, directly from French, often used to emphasize the word's origins and elegant connotations.
  • The invitation was for a soirée at eight o'clock.

Synonyms

• Evening party: A more general, less formal term.
• Salon: Historically, a gathering of intellectuals or artists, similar in spirit to a literary/musical soiree.
• Reception: A formal social event to welcome or entertain guests, which could be held in the evening.

Antonyms

• Raucous party: A loud, boisterous gathering.
• Morning gathering: An event held in the morning, such as a brunch or meeting.

Idioms and Fixed Phrases

• "To hold court at a soiree": To be the center of attention and conversation at such an event.
  • The famous novelist held court at the soiree, captivating everyone with her stories.

Noun

1. a party of people assembled in the evening (usually at a private house)