Catering
/ˈkeɪtərɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe business of providing food and drink, typically for events or functions.
/ˈkeɪtərɪŋ/
The provision of food and drink.
The wedding catering was delicious.
💡 Simply: Catering is when someone makes and serves food for a party or event.
👶 For kids: Making and serving food for a big party.
More Examples
They hired a catering company for their corporate event.
How It's Used
"The catering for the wedding was excellent."
"Our hotel offers a full catering service."
To provide food and drink for an event or a group of people.
/ˈkeɪtərɪŋ/
To provide food and drink.
We will cater the party.
💡 Simply: To cater means to prepare and serve food, especially for a special event.
👶 For kids: To make and serve food for a party.
More Examples
They cater to large groups.
How It's Used
"We're catering the company picnic this year."
"The restaurant caters to a wide range of dietary needs."
From Middle English *catren, from Old French caterer, from Old North French *catrer "to supply provisions". Ultimately of uncertain origin, possibly related to words meaning "to provide" or "to supply".
The word's usage has remained relatively consistent throughout history, primarily focused on the provision of food and drink.
Memory tip
Think of 'catering' as 'caring' for the food needs of guests.
Word Origin
"to supply provisions"