What does soiree mean?
A soiree is an evening gathering at which people meet socially, often for conversation, entertainment, food, or drink. The word usually suggests a setting or occasion with some elegance and formality, whether that impression comes from the venue, the guests, the dress, or the activities. A soiree may be held in a private home, garden, hotel, club, or cultural institution, and it can range from an intimate gathering to a larger reception. In British and American English, the word is normally written “soiree,” although the French-accented spelling “soirée” is also widely recognized. The term is more characteristic of announcements, invitations, literary writing, and descriptions of social events than of casual conversation. Its French origin gives it associations with cosmopolitan style, making it especially useful when an ordinary word such as “party” would sound too informal or insufficiently refined.
nounAn evening social gathering, especially one held in an elegant or formal setting. The word often implies a refined or sophisticated occasion.
- An evening social gathering, especially one held in an elegant or formal setting.
"The hosts welcomed their guests to a garden soiree held beneath the old oak trees."
"She made a brief speech at the charity soiree before introducing the guest speaker."
"The museum's winter soiree combined chamber music with readings by its resident poets."
The regular plural is “soirees”; the accented variant plural is “soirées.”
"The venue has hosted numerous soirees for local charities."
Borrowed directly from French, where soirée means “evening,” the word gives an evening gathering an immediate touch of elegance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does soiree come from?
The English word was borrowed from French soirée, meaning “evening.” Its ultimate source is the Old French word soir, “evening,” which developed from Latin vesper. The unaccented English spelling “soiree” became established alongside the accented form “soirée.”
How soiree is actually used
Usually countable and somewhat formal. It commonly carries connotations of refinement, sociability, and an elegant setting; “soiree” is the unaccented spelling, while “soirée” retains the French accent.
Easily confused with soiree
Soirée is the accented French spelling; soiree is an established unaccented English spelling of the same word.