Feast: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this for large, elaborate meals often celebrating a special occasion or event. 'Feast' carries a sense of abundance and indulgence.

• They prepared a feast for the wedding celebration
• We enjoyed a Thanksgiving feast with all the traditional dishes

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.

• The charity organization held a banquet to honor its donors
• The annual awards banquet will be next month

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.

• We had a simple meal of soup and bread
• Let's have our meal outside in the garden

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.

• They laid out an impressive spread for the picnic
• The buffet had a delicious spread including salads, meats, and desserts

Typically used to describe a large, elaborate meal, often in a celebratory context.

• They invited all their friends to a grand feast for the holidays
• The village hosted a feast to celebrate the harvest

Refers to allowing oneself to enjoy something, often a treat, even if it's not particularly healthy or necessary.

• She decided to indulge in a piece of chocolate cake after a long week
• On vacation, he likes to indulge in local cuisines

Describes eating large amounts of food very quickly, often implying a lack of self-control, and typically carries a negative connotation.

• He gorged himself on snacks while watching the football game
• They gorged on pizza at the party, and felt sick afterwards

Usually describes excessive consumption, often related to eating or drinking, and can have a negative connotation.

• After finishing his exams, he went on a movie binge all weekend
• She had a habit of binge eating late at night