When you walk into a bar, you may see bartenders mixing drinks, servers taking orders, and customers enjoying their drinks. However, there is another important role in the bar industry that often goes unnoticed: the barback. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of barbacks, their origin, and their associations in the bar industry.
Definitions
A barback is a person who works in a bar or nightclub, assisting the bartender with various tasks. These tasks may include stocking the bar with supplies, such as liquor, ice, and garnishes, cleaning up spills and messes, and helping to prepare drinks. Barbacks are often responsible for keeping the bar area clean and organized, and they may also assist with serving drinks to customers.
Origin
The origin of the term “barback” is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The term may have been derived from the phrase “back of the bar,” which refers to the area behind the bar where supplies and equipment are stored.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The term “barback” is not commonly found in most dictionaries. However, some sources define it as a person who works in a bar or nightclub, assisting the bartender with various tasks.
Associations
Barbacks are an important part of the bar industry, as they help to keep the bar running smoothly and ensure that customers receive their drinks in a timely manner. They are often responsible for restocking the bar with supplies, such as liquor, ice, and garnishes, and they may also assist with preparing drinks and serving customers. Barbacks are typically entry-level positions, and many people use them as a stepping stone to become bartenders.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for barbacks include bar assistants, bar helpers, and bar runners.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms for barbacks, but some people may consider bartenders to be the opposite of barbacks, as they are the ones who are responsible for making the drinks.
The same root words
There are no specific root words for barbacks, but the term “bar” may be related to the Latin word “barra,” which means “barrier” or “obstacle.”
Example Sentences
- The barback was busy restocking the liquor bottles while the bartender prepared drinks for the customers.
- The barback was responsible for cleaning up spills and keeping the bar area clean and organized.
- After working as a barback for several months, John was promoted to a bartender position.