Meal: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for any eating occasion throughout the day; can refer to breakfast, lunch, dinner, or any other eating occasion.

• I have three meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• She prepared a meal for her family.

Formal and somewhat archaic term for a meal, often used in literary or historical contexts.

• After the long journey, they enjoyed a simple repast by the fireside.
• The guests were invited to partake in the royal repast.

Indicates a large and elaborate meal, often in celebration of a special occasion, and implies abundance and variety of food.

• They held a feast to celebrate the harvest.
• There was a Thanksgiving feast with turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings.

Usually refers to the main meal of the day, which can be eaten in the evening or, in some cultures, at midday.

• We are going out for dinner tonight.
• Sunday dinners at grandma’s house are always special.