Smorgasbord: meaning, definitions and examples

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smorgasbord

 

[ ˈsmɔrɡəsˌbɔrd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

food variety

A smorgasbord is a buffet-style meal with a variety of dishes, often served in a decorative manner. Originating from Sweden, it includes a wide range of cold and hot dishes, allowing guests to sample different flavors. Traditionally, smorgasbords feature items like herring, cured meats, cheeses, and bread, but modern interpretations can include a diverse array of international cuisines. This style of dining encourages social interaction and offers flexibility in choosing food, making it popular for gatherings and celebrations.

Synonyms

array, buffet, catering, spread, table d'hôte

Examples of usage

  • The restaurant offered a delicious smorgasbord of international cuisines.
  • At the wedding, the guests enjoyed a lavish smorgasbord for dinner.
  • We decided to have a smorgasbord for our family reunion, featuring everyone's favorite dishes.

Translations

Translations of the word "smorgasbord" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bufê livre

🇮🇳 स्मोर्गसबोर्ड

🇩🇪 Schmaus

🇮🇩 smorgasbord

🇺🇦 шведський стіл

🇵🇱 bufet

🇯🇵 スモーガスボード

🇫🇷 buffet

🇪🇸 bufé

🇹🇷 açık büfe

🇰🇷 스모가스보드

🇸🇦 بوفيه

🇨🇿 švédský stůl

🇸🇰 švédsky stôl

🇨🇳 自助餐

🇸🇮 švedska miza

🇮🇸 smorgasbord

🇰🇿 швед үстелі

🇬🇪 სმორგასბორდი

🇦🇿 smorgasbord

🇲🇽 bufé

Word origin

The word 'smorgasbord' is derived from the Swedish language, where 'smörgås' means 'sandwich' and 'bord' means 'table.' This term was first used to describe a traditional Scandinavian buffet consisting of various cold dishes, served in a leisurely manner, allowing diners to sample multiple foods without a fixed sequence. The concept of the smorgasbord became popular in Sweden in the 18th century, particularly among the upper classes, as a way to display wealth and hospitality. Over time, it evolved into a more casual dining style that allowed for an array of choices, making it suitable for all types of gatherings. The idea of presenting food in a buffet style has since spread globally, adapting to various cultures while retaining the core idea of variety and communal dining. Today, 'smorgasbord' is often employed in the English language to refer to any generous assortment of items or choices, extending beyond just food to represent diversity in experiences or options.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,365 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.