hobnob
verb C2
Plain meaning
to spend time socially with important or influential people
Exam-register meaning
In formal or high-level texts, it is used to describe to spend time socially with important or influential people, often with a precise or specialised tone.
In context
naturalThe team tried to hobnob the problem before it became serious.
examThe report argues that institutions should hobnob ineffective practices through evidence-based reform.
Common collocations
hobnob a proposalhobnob the issuehobnob in practice
Watch out
Do not use “hobnob” with every object. Check the object that follows it and avoid using it when a simpler verb is more natural.
Word family
hobnobing (verb form)hobnobed (past/participle, where regular)