receiving line


noun
  1. a row formed by the hosts, guests of honor, or the like, for receiving guests formally at a ball, reception, etc.

Origin of receiving line

1
An Americanism dating back to 1930–35

Words Nearby receiving line

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use receiving line in a sentence

  • When they had won clear of the receiving line, Leila indulged in a subdued ripple of laughter.

  • The year before, at a White House reception, he had singled her out to stand at his side in the receiving line.

    Susan B. Anthony | Alma Lutz
  • Having passed the receiving line, the Westons held a small reception of their own.

    In Her Own Right | John Reed Scott
  • The ten old men of the receiving line were drawn up in battle array, in all the glory of their best clothes.

    The Comings of Cousin Ann | Emma Speed Sampson