booking

American  

[book-ing] / ˈbʊk ɪŋ /

noun

1. a contract, engagement, or scheduled performance of a professional entertainer.

2. reservation.

3. the act of a person who books.

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booking British  

/ ˈbʊkɪŋ /

noun

1. 1. a reservation, as of a table or room in a hotel, seat in a theatre, or seat on a train, aircraft, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      the booking office at a railway station

2. theatre an engagement for the services of an actor or acting company

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Etymology

Origin of booking

First recorded in 1635–45; book + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

AAA’s booking data says domestic car rentals are about 1% less expensive than a year ago.

From Barron's • May 17, 2026

The era of search-and-click travel, where consumers spend hours on booking sites comparing flight prices and room options, will be over.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

But for hoteliers checking their booking systems, the buzz is more of a murmur.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

Entry is free and no booking is required, have organisers said.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

My cop walked me in and sat me down at the front booking desk.

From "Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood" by Trevor Noah