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Meal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ
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meal

[miหl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food

A meal is an occasion when food is eaten, such as breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It can also refer to the food that is consumed during that occasion.

Synonyms

dinner, feast, repast.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
meal

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.
repast

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.
feast

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.
dinner

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 grandmaโ€™s house are always special.

Examples of usage

  • We had a delicious meal at the restaurant last night.
  • My favorite meal of the day is breakfast.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, meals are a way to gather families together, celebrate occasions, or mark important events.
  • In some traditions, breaking bread together symbolizes friendship and community, highlighting the importance of sharing food.

Nutrition

  • A balanced meal typically consists of proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables, providing essential nutrients for health.
  • Skipping meals can lead to sluggishness and decreased focus, showing how important it is to eat regularly.

Historical Origins

  • The practice of eating meals dates back to ancient civilizations; communal eating helped boost social bonds.
  • In medieval Europe, meals were often lavish affairs, with several courses served, showing the emphasis on hospitality.

Family Dynamics

  • Family meals can strengthen relationships, as shared conversations during meals foster communication and bonding.
  • Studies show that families who eat together regularly tend to have healthier eating habits and better social connections.

Pop Culture

  • Popular TV shows often feature meals as scenes for character development, showcasing important life moments around a table.
  • Food-related contests, like cooking shows, have surged in popularity, turning meal preparation into an entertainment spectacle.

Origin of 'meal'

The word 'meal' originated from the Old English word 'mวฃl', which meant a fixed time or occasion for eating. Over time, it evolved to refer to the food consumed during those occasions. The concept of meals has been an integral part of human culture and society, with different cultures having unique meal traditions.

See also: mealtime, mealy.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,069, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.