First Known Use: 1894
Dictionary
1honky–tonk
noun hon·ky–tonk \ˈhäŋ-kē-ˌtäŋk, ˈhȯŋ-kē-ˌtȯŋk\
: a type of lively music usually performed on a piano
: a type of country music with a heavy beat
: a cheap nightclub or dance hall that often features country music
Full Definition of HONKY-TONK
1
: a usually tawdry nightclub or dance hall; especially : one that features country music
2
: a district marked by places of cheap entertainment
3
: country music that has a heavy beat and lyrics dealing usually with vice or misfortune
— hon·ky–tonk·er \-ˌtäŋ-kər, -ˌtȯŋ-\ noun
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Origin of HONKY-TONK
origin unknown
2honky–tonk
adjective
Definition of HONKY-TONK
1
: of, used in, or being a form of ragtime piano playing performed typically on an upright piano
2
: marked by or characteristic of honky-tonks
First Known Use of HONKY-TONK
circa 1920
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