Supper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฝ๏ธ
supper
[หsสpษr ]
Definitions
eating
An evening meal, typically a light or informal one.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| supper |
An informal or light meal eaten in the evening, usually at home. It is often lighter and simpler than dinner.
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| dinner |
The main meal of the day, often eaten in the evening. It can be formal or informal, and is usually more substantial than supper.
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| evening meal |
A general term for any meal eaten in the evening. This can be interchangeable with supper or dinner but does not specify formality or size.
|
| feast |
A large, elaborate meal usually for a special occasion. It includes lots of food and is often shared with many people.
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Examples of usage
- We had a quick supper before the movie.
- She prepared a delicious supper for us.
historical
A meal given to servants at the end of the working day.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| supper |
This word is often used to refer to a light meal eaten in the evening, usually later than dinner. It is informal and commonly used in British English.
|
| evening meal |
This term is a more general phrase that refers to any meal eaten in the evening. It is less specific and can be used in various settings.
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| dinner |
Dinner is typically the main meal of the day, often eaten in the evening. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.
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| fare |
Fare refers to the type of food that is available or served, often implying variety. It is more commonly used in written language or in a more formal, descriptive context.
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Examples of usage
- The servants gathered in the kitchen for their supper.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- In some cultures, supper is the main meal of the day, while in others, it is lighter and eaten later.
- Family suppers are seen as important in many cultures, fostering connections and promoting communication.
- Certain traditions involve specific dishes served at supper, such as fish on Fridays in some Christian communities.
Literature
- Many classic novels depict supper as a time for characters to gather, revealing personal relationships and social dynamics.
- In Shakespeare's plays, supper often features as a backdrop for important conversations and conflicts.
- The settings of supper scenes in literature can reflect the culture and time period, showcasing food customs and social norms.
Health
- Eating a balanced supper can contribute to overall health by providing important nutrients before bedtime.
- Some studies suggest that lighter meals in the evening can promote better sleep compared to heavier dinners.
- Mindful eating during supper encourages people to appreciate their food and can lead to healthier eating habits.
Origin of 'supper'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'supper' comes from the Old French word 'souper,' which means 'to take supper or to have a late meal.'
- Originally, 'supper' referred to a meal eaten in the evening, but in some cultures, it can be a lighter meal than 'dinner.'
- In Middle English, 'sopperen' meant 'to eatโ and was associated with evening meals around the 14th century.
The word 'supper' originated from the Old French word 'souper', which means 'evening meal'. It has been used in the English language since the 13th century. Originally, 'supper' referred to a light evening meal, often after dinner. Over time, it evolved to also mean the final meal of the day. In some cultures, 'supper' is still used to refer to a casual or light evening meal.
Word Frequency Rank
At #6,341 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.
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- 6338 affiliated
- 6339 hast
- 6340 pepper
- 6341 supper
- 6342 surveillance
- 6343 romance
- 6344 investigating
- ...