What does hobnobbed mean?
Hobnobbed is a verb that means to associate or socialize with people, especially those of high social status. It is often used in formal or business contexts to describe socializing with people of high status, but can also be used in informal contexts to describe friendly or flattering socializing. The word is derived from the phrase 'hob-nob', which refers to the practice of socializing with people of high status in a friendly or flattering way. Hobnobbed is often used in the context of politics, business, or social events, and can be used to describe both positive and negative social interactions. The word has a slightly formal tone and is often used in writing or formal speech. Overall, hobnobbed is a useful word for describing social interactions with people of high status, and can be used in a variety of contexts to add depth and nuance to one's writing or speech.
verbTo associate or socialize with people, especially those of high social status, often in a way that is considered to be friendly or flattering.
- To associate or socialize with people, especially those of high social status, often in a way that is considered to be friendly or flattering.
"The politician hobnobbed with celebrities at the charity gala."
"The politician hobnobbed with celebrities at the charity gala."
"The business owner hobnobbed with potential investors at the conference."
Hobnobbed is typically used as a singular verb, but can be used as a plural verb in some contexts, such as when describing a group of people who are socializing with people of high status.
"The politicians hobnobbed with celebrities at the charity gala."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hobnobbed
The word 'hobnobbed' is derived from the phrase 'hob-nob', which refers to the practice of socializing with people of high status in a friendly or flattering way. The phrase is thought to have originated in the 17th century, and is likely derived from the names of two English politicians, Sir John Hobart and Sir John Hobson, who were known for their friendly and flattering social interactions with people of high status. The word 'hobnobbed' has been in use since the 19th century, and has been used to describe both positive and negative social interactions.
How hobnobbed is actually used
Hobnobbed is often used in formal or business contexts to describe socializing with people of high status. It can also be used in informal contexts to describe friendly or flattering socializing.