Definition of "gala" []

• A festive occasion, especially a lavish social event or entertainment. (noun)
• Chiefly British An athletic competition, especially a swimming contest. (noun)
• Marked by lavish or festive celebration: a gala ball after the inaugural ceremony. (adjective)
• Characterized by sumptuous social pleasure: the gala life of the very rich. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Fey, who has won several Emmys for her writing and acting, has given the Twain gala's producers and writers plenty of skits and one-liners to work with."
• "In addition to honoring student work, the College Television Awards gala is an opportunity for this talented group of students, and soon-to-be industry professionals, to meet and network with high-level Hollywood decision-makers."
• "Its next U.S. gala is scheduled for June on the Mall."