dive bar

American  

[dahyv bahr] / ˈdaɪv ˌbɑr /

noun

Slang.

1. a dingy, disreputable, or seedy bar or tavern.

   We met for a drink at this dank, dimly lit dive bar around the corner.

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Etymology

Origin of dive bar

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

The operative noted that going to Butterworth’s was “a career move” and said they preferred to go to the dive bar two doors down: “I’d rather just go to the Tune Inn and have a better time.”

From Slate

At the Virginian, a dimly lit dive bar with dollar bills plastered to the wall, bartender Joshua Roche was pouring beers Thursday for a rowdy group that included one active-duty and two retired Marines.

From Los Angeles Times

In recent years, the definition of live entertainment has expanded, and Actors’ Equity has recognized performers at the Griffith Observatory, Drunk Shakespeare companies and even the dancers at the Star Garden Topless Dive Bar in North Hollywood.

From Los Angeles Times

Highland Park is home to the Offbeat, which is one of my friend Jaycen Mitchell‘s favorite bars in the area. The beloved dive bar hosts karaoke nights, drag shows, live music performances, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” screenings and other themed nights throughout the week.

From Los Angeles Times

“I do think it’s a sign of progress that younger drag queens don’t all have to crawl on their hands and knees through the dive bar experience. However, DeLa and I learned so much of what we use today with large audiences by honing those skills with itty-bitty audiences locally. We’ve just trained ourselves to turn the dial up.”

From Los Angeles Times