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Picnicking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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picnicking

[ˈpɪk.nɪk.ɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

leisure activity

Picnicking refers to the act of enjoying a meal outdoors, typically in a park, garden, or other open spaces. It often involves bringing food and drinks from home, along with blankets and other supplies. People engage in picnicking as a way to relax and socialize with family and friends. It is a popular recreational activity, especially during warmer months when outdoor settings are more inviting.

Synonyms

al fresco eating, open-air meal, outdoor dining.

Examples of usage

  • We went picnicking by the lake last Sunday.
  • She packed sandwiches for our day of picnicking.
  • They enjoyed picnicking in the meadow with friends.
  • Picnicking at the beach is one of my favorite summer activities.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word originated from the French term 'pique-nique', which referred to a meal eaten outside, particularly in social gatherings.
  • Picnicking became popular in the 18th century among the upper classes in France before spreading to other countries.
  • In the United States, the tradition grew during the mid-19th century, coinciding with the rise of leisure activities.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures around the world have their own versions of outdoor meals, such as 'fika' in Sweden or 'barbecue' traditions in the US.
  • Picnicking is often associated with important holidays and family gatherings, like Independence Day in the U.S. and summer solstice celebrations in many regions.
  • In Japan, 'hanami' is a picnic tradition where people gather under cherry blossom trees to enjoy food and admire the blossoms.

Environmental Awareness

  • Picnicking encourages people to connect with nature, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation.
  • Practicing 'Leave No Trace' principles while picnicking helps protect outdoor spaces from litter and damage.
  • Many organizations promote picnicking as a way to increase public awareness of wildlife and natural habitats.

Psychological Benefits

  • Eating outdoors can boost mood and reduce stress, creating a more enjoyable dining experience.
  • Spending time in nature during a picnic enhances focus and creativity, as supported by studies on nature exposure.
  • Picnicking in a calm setting fosters social interactions, strengthening relationships and enhancing overall well-being.

Literature and Arts

  • Many authors, including Proust and Thoreau, have written about picnics as a metaphor for leisure and enjoyment of life.
  • Picnics serve as a recurring theme in movies and television, often symbolizing fun, romance, and carefree moments.
  • In art, picnicking scenes have been depicted since the Renaissance, capturing the joy and aesthetics of outdoor meals.

Origin of 'picnicking'

The word 'picnic' originated from the French term 'pique-nique,' which dates back to the 17th century. It initially referred to a social event in which each guest contributed food. The blending of the words 'pique' (to pick) and 'nique' (a small portion) leads to the modern idea of an outdoor meal shared among friends. The usage of 'picnic' to describe informal outdoor meals evolved over time, especially in the 19th century when more people began to embrace leisure activities. In contemporary usage, 'picnicking' describes not just the act of sharing food outdoors, but also the full experience of preparation, travel to a scenic location, and enjoyment of nature.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,110, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.