1. plural of bal; formal social gatherings or dances, especially grand or elaborate ones
Usage: chiefly historical or formal contexts; often used in reference to 18th and 19th century European high society

Examples

• The royal court hosted several bals throughout the season.
• She attended the most prestigious bals in Vienna.
• The bals of the Gilded Age were legendary for their extravagance.
• Invitations to the winter bals were highly coveted among the aristocracy.