English Expression · Native
work the room
To interact enthusiastically with the attendees at an event, by moving among them, greeting them, and engaging them in conversation
Pronunciation: say work the room
Meaning
To interact enthusiastically with the attendees at an event, by moving among them, greeting them, and engaging them in conversation.
Example
As a campaigning politician, he really knew how to shake hands, kiss babies, and work the room.
As a campaigning politician, he really knew how to shake hands, kiss babies, and work the room.
Practice tips
- Practice work the room out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for native-level learners.