Phrase guide

work the room

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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  • Australia: Recorded audio is listed in the source snapshot.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To interact enthusiastically with the attendees at an event, by moving among them, greeting them, and engaging them in conversation.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Qualifier: hostess; or guest; hostess; or guest

Examples

  • As a campaigning politician, he really knew how to shake hands, kiss babies, and work the room.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To interact with one's audience, taking cues from its reactions and adapting one's performance or words to elicit the audience's attention and enthusiasm.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

2 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: ottaa yleisönsä — to interact with attendees at social event
  • Finnish: ottaa yleisönsä — to interact with one's audience