Cabaret
/ˌkæb.əˈreɪ/noun
A nightclub or small venue featuring entertainment such as music, dance, comedy, or performance.
Did you know?The word entered English through French, and its earlier senses pointed to a tavern or inn room, not a stage of sequins and smoke; the modern glitter came much later.
Etymological Timeline
Medieval French
Old Picard/French
cambret / cabaret
“a small room, tavern, or inn”
16th Century
French
cabaret
“an inn or public house; a place for drinking and eating”
17th Century
French
cabaret
“a drinking establishment or social gathering place”
Late 19th Century
French
cabaret
“a venue for entertainment, song, and performance”
Early 20th Century
English
cabaret
“a nightclub or performance venue featuring entertainment”