Dinner Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dinner
[ˈdɪnər ]
Definitions
meal time
The main meal of the day, typically eaten in the evening. It can vary in size and composition but is usually a substantial meal consisting of a variety of dishes.
Synonyms
evening meal, main meal, supper.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dinner |
Generally used to refer to the main meal of the day, which is often eaten in the evening but can also refer to a substantial meal taken at midday. Commonly used in both formal and informal settings.
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| supper |
Traditionally refers to a light meal eaten in the evening. It can also be used to describe a late evening snack and is slightly less formal than 'dinner'.
|
| evening meal |
Specifically refers to the meal eaten in the evening. More formal and less common in everyday conversation but clear in context.
|
| main meal |
Refers to the most substantial meal of the day, whether it's eaten at midday or in the evening. Often used in dietary or nutritional contexts.
|
Examples of usage
- We usually have dinner around 7 pm.
- For dinner, we had roast chicken with vegetables and mashed potatoes.
social gathering
A formal evening meal, often accompanied by entertainment or speeches. It is a social occasion where people come together to enjoy food and company.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| dinner |
A formal or informal meal typically eaten in the evening. It can be a family gathering or just a regular meal.
|
| banquet |
A large, formal meal for many people, usually for a special occasion or event, such as a wedding or award ceremony.
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| feast |
A large meal with plentiful food and drink, often for a special celebration. It can sound more extravagant or festive than just 'dinner.'
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| reception |
A social event, often following a formal ceremony such as a wedding or a formal meeting, where light refreshments or meals are served, and people can mingle and socialize.
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Examples of usage
- The charity event included a three-course dinner and live music.
- We are hosting a dinner party for our friends next weekend.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Traditions
- Many cultures have unique dinner customs, such as family gathering around a table in the U.S. or communal eating shared from large plates in parts of Africa.
- In some countries, dinner is a late meal, often served after 8 PM, reflecting social and work schedules.
- Ceremonial dinners, like holiday feasts, strengthen cultural identity and family bonds.
Health and Nutrition
- Dinner can be an important time to gather as a family, promoting healthy eating habits and communication.
- Balanced dinners typically include a variety of food groups: proteins, vegetables, and grains, essential for nutrition.
- Eating too late at night can disrupt sleep, prompting discussions on meal timing and its effects on health.
Literature and Media
- Dinner scenes in literature often symbolize social status, relationships, and character development in both classic and modern storytelling.
- Dinner is a common setting in films and TV shows, often dramatizing interactions during familial or romantic gatherings.
- The iconic phrase 'dinner is served' evokes a sense of anticipation in narrative settings, marking significant moments.
Social Practices
- In many societies, sharing dinner with friends can foster relationships and community bonds.
- Dinner parties have been a popular social tradition, often centered around elaborate meals that showcase culinary skills.
- Potluck dinners allow guests to bring dishes, encouraging participation and sharing among friends.
Origin of 'dinner'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'dinner' comes from the Old French word 'disner', which meant 'to have breakfast' as it was originally the first meal of the day.
- In the Middle Ages, 'dinner' referred to the day's main meal, which was often served around noon.
- The transition of dinner to the evening meal became common in the 19th century, especially among working-class people.
The word 'dinner' originated from the Old French word 'disner', which meant 'breakfast'. Over time, the meaning shifted to refer to the main meal of the day. In medieval times, the word 'dinner' referred to the first meal of the day, while 'supper' was the last meal. As societal eating habits changed, 'dinner' became associated with the evening meal.