Feast Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฝ๏ธ
feast
[fiหst ]
Definitions
celebration
A large meal, typically a celebratory one.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| feast |
Use this for large, elaborate meals often celebrating a special occasion or event. 'Feast' carries a sense of abundance and indulgence.
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| banquet |
This is typically used for formal or ceremonial occasions often hosted by organizations, institutions, or events. It suggests a structured setting with speeches, toasts, and a large number of guests.
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| meal |
This is a general term for any eating occasion, whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 'Meal' can be used for both casual and formal settings.
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| spread |
Use 'spread' to describe a large variety of food items laid out together, often for a casual or buffet-style dining experience. It suggests abundance and variety rather than formality.
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Examples of usage
- The wedding feast was a lavish affair with a variety of delicious dishes.
- We prepared a feast to celebrate our anniversary.
- The king hosted a grand feast for all his subjects.
eating
To eat and drink sumptuously.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| feast |
Typically used to describe a large, elaborate meal, often in a celebratory context.
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| indulge |
Refers to allowing oneself to enjoy something, often a treat, even if it's not particularly healthy or necessary.
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| gorge |
Describes eating large amounts of food very quickly, often implying a lack of self-control, and typically carries a negative connotation.
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| binge |
Usually describes excessive consumption, often related to eating or drinking, and can have a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- We feasted on fresh seafood at the beach.
- The family feasted on the Thanksgiving turkey.
- After the long journey, the travelers feasted on a hearty meal.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures celebrate harvest festivals with feasts, honoring the food collected from the land.
- In some traditions, feasts mark important life events like weddings, birthdays, and religious celebrations.
Historical Origins
- The word comes from the Latin 'festa', meaning 'feast' or 'festival', pointing to its celebration roots.
- In medieval Europe, feasting was a way to display wealth and hospitality, often featuring extravagant dishes.
- Ancient Romans held lavish banquets known as 'convivia', emphasizing the social element of shared meals.
Gastronomy
- A feast often includes a variety of dishes, from appetizers to desserts, showcasing culinary creativity.
- Certain feasts feature traditional foods that are meaningful to the culture, like turkey on Thanksgiving in the U.S.
- The art of organizing a feast involves planning not just the menu but also the ambiance and guest experience.
Psychology
- Sharing a feast can strengthen bonds between people, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
- Studies show that partaking in communal meals can improve mental well-being and reduce stress levels.
- The sensory experience of a feast โ sights, smells, and tastes โ can create lasting positive memories.
Literature
- Feasts often appear in literature as a symbol of abundance and celebration, from 'The Great Gatsby' to 'A Feast for Crows'.
- In classic fairy tales, a feast signifies the end of a journey, marking the triumph of the hero and the joy of reunion.
- Shakespeare frequently included feasts in his plays, using them as settings for key plot developments and character interactions.
Origin of 'feast'
The word 'feast' originated from the Old French word 'feste', which in turn came from the Latin word 'festum'. Feasting has been a part of human culture for centuries, often associated with celebrations, gatherings, and communal events. The concept of feasting has evolved over time, from ancient rituals and religious ceremonies to modern-day festivities and special occasions.
See also: feaster.