Lunch

Definition

Lunch is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a meal eaten in the middle of the day, typically lighter than dinner. As a verb, it means to eat or provide lunch.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lʌntʃ/
• Respelling: LUNCH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /lʌntʃ/
• Respelling: LUNCH

Etymology

The word "lunch" is a shortened form of "luncheon," which dates back to the 16th century. "Luncheon" is thought to originate from the Middle English "nonechenche," meaning "midday meal," derived from Old English "non," meaning "noon."

Derivatives

• Luncheon (noun)
• Luncher (noun)
• Lunching (verb)
• Lunchbox (noun)
• Relunch (verb)

Synonyms

• Midday meal
• Noon meal
• Brunch (when combined with breakfast)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "lunch" is used to describe the midday meal in various cultural and social contexts. For example, "I had a sandwich for lunch," or "She lunched with her colleagues."

Related Terms

• Breakfast: The first meal of the day, usually eaten in the morning.
• Dinner: The main meal of the day, often eaten in the evening.
• Snack: A small amount of food eaten between meals.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A meal eaten in the middle of the day: Refers to the traditional midday meal.
  • Example: "He packed a salad for lunch."
• A light meal: Can refer to a smaller portion or a snack-like meal eaten during midday.
  • Example: "She prefers a light lunch to save room for dinner."

Verb

• To eat lunch: Describes the action of having a midday meal.
  • Example: "They lunched at the café."
• To provide or serve lunch: Refers to offering a midday meal.
  • Example: "The company lunched the team during the meeting."