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Fete Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fete

[feษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

celebration event

A fete is typically a celebration or festival held outdoors, often featuring a variety of activities such as games, food, and entertainment. It is commonly organized to raise funds for a charity or local community project. Fetes can vary in scale, from small, local gatherings to larger, more elaborate events. They are often family-friendly and designed to bring the community together in a festive atmosphere.

Synonyms

celebration, fair, festival.

Examples of usage

  • The school is planning a summer fete this weekend.
  • We enjoyed the annual village fete with rides and local crafts.
  • The charity fรชte raised over a thousand dollars for the cause.
Context #2 | Verb

celebrate lavishly

To fete someone means to honor or celebrate them often in a lavish or public manner. This can include throwing a party or hosting an event to recognize their achievements or contributions. The term is particularly used for formal occasions and can imply a sense of respect or admiration for the person being honored.

Synonyms

celebrate, commend, honor.

Examples of usage

  • The community came together to fete the local hero.
  • They decided to fete her retirement with a grand celebration.
  • The university feted the award-winning professor with a special dinner.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Fetes are commonly linked with community spirit, bringing people together for shared enjoyment.
  • In many cultures, such gatherings are used to honor religious or historical events.
  • Festivities often include local traditions, foods, music, and dances that reflect the community's identity.

Literature

  • Fetes often appear in classic literature as settings for character interaction and social commentary.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, festivals can serve as backdrops for crucial plot developments, showcasing human behavior in revelry.
  • Modern literature utilizes fetes to explore themes of joy, community, and sometimes, underlying tensions.

Psychology

  • Participating in social celebrations like fetes can boost mental well-being and help reduce stress.
  • Community events encourage social bonding, enhancing feelings of belonging and security.
  • Research shows that engaging in joyful gatherings increases overall happiness and strengthens relationships.

Pop Culture

  • Fetes often influence popular media, depicted in films and TV shows as grand events filled with drama and excitement.
  • Songs about parties and celebrations frequently reference fetes, emphasizing fun and community togetherness.
  • Fashion trends may emerge from the lavish clothing showcased at public fetes, inspiring designers and influencers alike.

Origin of 'fete'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French 'fรชte', meaning a feast or celebration.
  • It traces further back to the Latin 'festivus', meaning 'of a feast'.
  • In English, it began to be used in the 18th century, specifically associated with public celebrations.

The word 'fete' originates from the Latin 'festivus', meaning 'of a feast or festival', which evolved into the Old French word 'fรชte'. In French, 'fรชte' refers to a holiday or feast day, emphasizing celebration and merriment. This term was adopted into English in the late 19th century, and it has since retained its associations with community gatherings and celebrations. The use of 'fete' in English reflects the cultural influence of French social customs, particularly during a time when many upper-class English families were drawn to the grandeur and festivities of French society. Over time, 'fete' has also developed a verb form, to 'fete' someone, which signifies honoring and celebrating individuals for their achievements, drawing further on the festive connotations of the original term.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,796, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.