Deli: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in informal speech to refer to a shop that sells ready-to-eat foods like sandwiches, cold cuts, cheeses, and salads.

• I'm going to the deli to grab a sandwich for lunch.
• The local deli makes the best pastrami.

A more formal term for a shop selling prepared foods, often of high quality; might also be used to refer to a special section in a larger grocery store.

• The delicatessen down the street has an amazing selection of imported cheeses.
• He works at a delicatessen known for its gourmet offerings.

A general term for any store that sells food items, including groceries, but does not imply ready-to-eat or specialty foods.

• I need to buy some milk and bread, so I'm going to the food store.
• There's a new food store opening in the neighborhood.

Use 'deli' to refer to a store or a section of a store where they sell ready-to-eat food, such as sandwiches, cold cuts, and salads.

• I'm going to the deli to get a sandwich for lunch.
• The local deli has the best pastrami on rye.

Used when referring to a larger vehicle designed for transporting goods, often for business purposes. This can include food deliveries, retail goods, and other types of merchandise.

• The delivery truck arrived with our new furniture this morning.
• We saw a delivery truck unloading supplies at the store.

Typically refers to a smaller vehicle used for deliveries, often in urban areas. It can be associated with more personal or smaller-scale deliveries.

• The delivery van brought our groceries to the front door.
• She drives a delivery van for a local bakery.

Primarily used to refer to a store that specializes in selling meats, cheeses, and other fresh foods, often prepared foods as well. You can often find sandwiches and salads here.

• Let's grab a sandwich from the deli for lunch.
• The deli around the corner has the best smoked turkey.

A larger retail store that sells a wide variety of food and household products. Unlike a deli or corner shop, it offers a full range of groceries including fresh produce, meat, and dairy.

• We do our weekly shopping at the grocery store.
• The grocery store has a sale on fruits and vegetables this week.

Commonly refers to a small convenience store located on or near a street corner. It typically sells everyday essentials like snacks, drinks, newspapers, and basic household goods.

• I need to run to the corner shop to get some milk.
• There's a corner shop just a few blocks away where you can get some snacks.