Sotheby Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈsɒθbi/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A renowned international auction house, established in London in 1744, known for selling rare and valuable art, antiques, and collectibles.

Examples

• The Sotheby’s auction house sold the rare painting for a record-breaking price.
• The art collector bid on a rare vase at the Sotheby’s auction.
• The auctioneer announced the opening bid at Sotheby’s for the rare book.
• Sotheby’s has been a leading auction house in the art world for centuries.
• The Sotheby’s auction house sells unique and valuable items at their quarterly sales.

Synonyms

• Auction House
• Sale House

Antonyms

• Purchase
• Gift

Additional Information

Sotheby’s is one of the world’s leading auction houses, with a rich history spanning over 275 years. Its expertise lies in the sale of rare and valuable items, such as art, antiques, jewelry, and collectibles. With over 1,000 employees worldwide, Sotheby’s has established a strong reputation in the art and collectibles markets. The company is committed to providing exceptional service to its clients, ensuring that each experience is memorable and successful.

Etymology

Sotheby’s is named after its founder, Samuel Baker, who established the company in 1744 as a broker in the City of London. The name “Sotheby’s” has been associated with the company since 1768.

Usage Notes

Sotheby’s is typically used in the context of auction houses, art markets, and high-value transactions. When used, it is best to capitalize the company name to maintain proper spelling and clarity.

Cultural References

Sotheby’s has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, television, and film. Some notable examples include the TV show “The Closer,” the novel “The Art Forger,” and the film “The Informant!”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

There are no common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word “Sotheby’s.”

Related Words or Phrases

Auction, Art, Antique, Collectible, Rare

Collocations

Sotheby’s collocates well with words like “auction,” “art,” “antique,” and “valuabe.”

Frequency of Use

While not a commonly used term, “Sotheby’s” is typically used in specific contexts such as the art world, auctions, and high-end transactions. Its frequency of use is moderate, with most instances occurring in formal or professional settings.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of “Sotheby’s” include “Sothby’s,” “Sothebee’s,” and “Sothbe’s.”