bartender

American  

[bahr-ten-der] / ˈbɑrˌtɛn dər /

noun

1. a person who mixes and serves alcoholic drinks at a bar.

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bartender British  

/ ˈbɑːˌtɛndə /

noun

1. a person who serves in a bar

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Etymology

Origin of bartender

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40; bar ¹ + tender ³

Explanation

A bartender is a person who mixes, pours, and serves drinks from behind a bar. The bartender at a bar mitzvah may spend hours putting little paper umbrellas in Shirley Temples for the young guests. If you work as a bartender, you need to know how to mix cocktails, pour wine and beer, and keep the bar tidy. Most bartenders don't make a high hourly wage, but depend on tips to make a good living. Many events, like wedding receptions and big parties, include a bartender. The word itself dates from the early 19th century, from bar, which comes from the barrier or counter over which drinks are served, and tender, or "seller."

Example Sentences

Stenson’s celebrity stock rose in 2010 when he was anointed “Best Bartender in America” by his peers nationwide at the Tales of the Cocktail festival, one of the highest honors in the industry.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 23, 2023

Bartender Laura Ortiz told her union that “I voted yes to strike because I often have to pick up shifts at the Rose Bowl just to try to make ends meet.”

From Washington Times • Jul. 13, 2022

If you prefer a little more flash, there’s also Bartender, which costs $15 but offers a fancier design.

From The Verge • Dec. 30, 2021

The firm first released the robot on 24 February of this year - World Bartender Day.

From BBC • Nov. 14, 2021

I have known the author of "The Ideal Bartender" for many years, and it is a genuine privilege to be permitted to testify to his qualifications for such a work.

From The Ideal Bartender by Bullock, Tom