black-tie

1 of 2

adjective

ˈblak-ˌtī How to pronounce black-tie (audio)
variants or less commonly black tie
Synonyms of black-tienext
: characterized by or requiring the wearing of semiformal evening clothes consisting of a usually black tie and tuxedo for men and a formal dress for women
a black-tie dinner
compare white-tie

black tie

2 of 2

noun

: semiformal clothing
gentlemen in black tie for the banquet

Examples of black-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.
Adjective
Swift and Kelce’s black-tie wedding was officiated by Adam Sandler. — Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026 Opting for a more traditional black-tie ensemble, her husband Justin Bieber arrived in a black suit and tie layered over a white shirt. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 30 Aug. 2026
Noun
And for holiday, Browne updated his black tie offerings with new dresses, capes and sport coats. — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026 Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit were dressed in black, with the crown prince wearing a black tie. — Stefania Conrieri, Vanity Fair, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for black-tie

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1933, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1951, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of black-tie was in 1933

Browse Nearby Words

black thumb
black-tie
black tie
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Black-tie.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/black-tie. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for black-tie

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