Breakfast

Definition

Breakfast is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the first meal of the day, typically eaten in the morning after a night's sleep. As a verb, it means to eat breakfast.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbrɛkfəst/
• Respelling: BREK-fuhst

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbrɛkfəst/
• Respelling: BREK-fuhst

Etymology

The word "breakfast" originates from the late Middle English term, which combines "break" and "fast," meaning to break the fasting period of the night. The concept of breakfast as a morning meal has been a longstanding tradition, historically seen as an essential start to the day.

Derivatives

• Breakfasting (verb)
• Breakfasted (verb)
• Breakfast-time (noun)
• Breakfast-table (noun)
• Breakfastable (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Morning meal
• First meal
• Brunch (late breakfast)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "breakfast" is widely used to refer to the first meal of the day, typically consumed in the morning. For example, "He had a hearty breakfast before heading to work," or "They breakfasted together on weekends."

Related Terms

• Brunch: A late morning meal that combines elements of breakfast and lunch.
• Fast: A period of not eating, often overnight.
• Meal: An instance of eating, usually associated with a specific time of day.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The first meal of the day, usually eaten in the morning: Refers to a meal typically consisting of foods like eggs, toast, cereal, or fruit, consumed after an overnight fast.
  • Example: "She enjoys a light breakfast of yogurt and fruit."

Verb

• To eat breakfast: Used to describe the act of consuming the first meal of the day.
  • Example: "They often breakfast together at a local café."