Dinner
/ˈdɪnər/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe main meal of the day, usually eaten in the evening.
/ˈdɪnər/
The main meal of the day, typically eaten in the evening.
I'm cooking dinner tonight.
💡 Simply: Dinner is the big meal you eat at the end of the day! Like, when you eat with your family.
👶 For kids: Dinner is the food you eat at night.
More Examples
We're having dinner with friends.
The restaurant served a lovely dinner.
How It's Used
"We had a delicious dinner at a fancy restaurant."
"They're hosting a dinner party this weekend."
A formal or celebratory meal, often held in honor of someone or something.
/ˈdɪnər/
A formal meal, especially one given in honor of someone.
A state dinner was held for the visiting dignitaries.
💡 Simply: Sometimes dinner can be a special meal! Like a party with food.
👶 For kids: Sometimes dinner is a fancy party with food.
More Examples
The charity hosted a fundraising dinner.
The annual awards dinner was a glamorous event.
How It's Used
"The awards dinner was a prestigious event."
"A fundraising dinner was held to raise money."
Idioms & expressions
dinner is served
An announcement that dinner is ready to eat.
"The cook announced, 'Dinner is served!'"
From Old French disner ('to dine'), ultimately from Latin dis- + jejunare ('to break one's fast'). Originally referred to the main meal of the day, it shifted to an evening meal over time.
Originally referred to the first meal of the day; the meaning shifted over time.
Memory tip
Think of the 'din' of clinking plates and conversation.