noun
levee
A formal gathering to receive guests.
The governor greets each guest personally at the annual levee.
Etymology
French lever means rising, especially getting out of bed. A ruler’s ceremonial reception while rising supplied the name, which broadened to other formal receptions.
More examples
- Guests line up to meet the ambassador at the levee.
- Invitations to the levee specify formal dress.
- The palace hosts several levees each year.
Forms
levee · levees