bartender

UK: ˈbɑːˌtendə | US: ˈbɑːrˌtendər

Definition

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

Structure
bar <counter for drinks>tender <one who tends>
Etymology

bartender = bar<counter for drinks> + tender<one who tends>

  • bar: From Old French barre (beam, barrier), originally referring to the counter where drinks are served.
  • tender: From Old French tendre (to stretch, attend to), later generalized to "one who manages or cares for something."

Etymology Origin:
The word bartender emerged in 19th-century America, combining bar (the physical counter) and tender (a caretaker). It reflects the role’s function—attending to the bar and its patrons. Unlike older terms like barman, bartender emphasizes service over gender.

Examples

  1. The bartender skillfully mixed a cocktail.

  2. She asked the bartender for a recommendation.

  3. A good bartender remembers regular customers’ preferences.

  4. He worked as a bartender to pay for college.

  5. The bartender refused to serve the intoxicated patron.