What does hobnobbing mean?
Hobnobbing means spending time socially with other people, especially members of the same social circle or people who share a similar level of status, prominence, or interest. The word is most natural in British and American English and is usually followed by “with,” as in “hobnob with the locals.” It can sound friendly and informal, but it may also suggest mixing with a particular group, sometimes with a faintly critical or ironic tone: a politician might be described as hobnobbing with the rich and famous. Although the word can imply genuine sociability, its playful sound makes it especially useful for describing conspicuous or fashionable social connections. Hobnobbing is also the present participle of “hobnob,” and its sense derives from the older verb meaning to associate or converse on friendly terms.
verbTo socialize or spend time with people, especially people of a similar social status, background, or prominence. The word often carries the connotation of friendly, informal interaction within a particular social circle.
- To socialize or associate informally with people, especially within a particular social circle.
"She spent the evening hobnobbing with filmmakers and critics at the festival reception."
"They hobnobbed over coffee before the opening ceremony."
"The politician was seen hobnobbing with prominent members of the press."
To hobnob is to join a social circle—though the word’s playful sound may make that invitation sound more exclusive than it is.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hobnobbing come from?
The present form derives from the verb “hobnob,” which has been used since the early 18th century for friendly social association. The verb was formed as a reduplicative-looking compound of “hob” and “nob,” although the precise historical motivation for the pairing is uncertain. No clear cognates in other modern languages are established.
Related word forms
How hobnobbing is actually used
The expression is normally used with “with.” It often suggests informal social interaction and may imply that the people involved share a status, interest, or social circle.
Easily confused with hobnobbing
To hobnob is to socialize with people, whereas to haggle is to bargain, especially over the price of goods.