speakeasy

"Speakeasy" is a fascinating word with a strong historical identity. It has one main meaning rooted in American history, though it is also used today in a more modern, inspired sense. Here is what you need to know.

1nounillegal bar during Prohibition

A speakeasy was a secret bar or club in the United States during the 1920s and early 1930s, a period called Prohibition, when selling alcohol was illegal. People had to speak quietly — or 'easy' — about these places so the police would not find out. You would often need a password just to get inside!

American history / social history · Originally 1920s–1933; widely known in historical contexts today

The speakeasy was hidden behind a bookshelf in the back of a barbershop.

During Prohibition, thousands of speakeasies operated illegally across New York City.

My great-grandmother told stories about sneaking into a speakeasy as a young woman.

2nounmodern bar styled after the 1920s

Today, many bars and restaurants call themselves 'speakeasies' to capture the glamour and mystery of the 1920s. They are usually dimly lit, decorated in a vintage style, and may have a hidden entrance or a secret cocktail menu. The word gives them a cool, secretive atmosphere — even though they are completely legal.

hospitality / nightlife · Modern, widely used

We went to a speakeasy-style bar downtown where you enter through a phone booth.

The new speakeasy on Fifth Avenue serves classic cocktails from the 1920s.

She loved the intimate, candlelit atmosphere of the speakeasy they visited on their anniversary.