Menu

Definition

Menu is a noun that refers to a list of options or items, often in the context of food and drink offerings at a restaurant or a list of commands or choices in a software application.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛn.ju/
• Respelling: MEN-yoo

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛn.juː/
• Respelling: MEN-yoo

Etymology

The word "menu" comes from the French term "menu," meaning "detailed list" or "small." It traces back to the Latin word "minutus," meaning "small" or "minute." The term was adopted in English in the 19th century, initially referring to a list of dishes served at a meal.

Derivatives

• Menuless (adjective)
• Submenu (noun)
• Menu-driven (adjective)
• Main menu (noun)
• Menu bar (noun)

Synonyms

• List
• Selection
• Catalog

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "menu" is commonly used in contexts such as dining, where it represents the list of available food and drink items, or in technology, where it refers to a graphical list of options in software. For example, "The menu at the restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes" or "Click the file menu to open a new document."

Related Terms

• Option: A choice or selection.
• Dish: A prepared item of food.
• Interface: A means of interaction, especially in computing.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A list of dishes offered at a restaurant: Refers to the options available for food and drink.
  • Example: "The restaurant's menu features both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes."
• A list of options in a software application: Refers to a graphical or textual display of available commands or features.
  • Example: "Select 'Settings' from the drop-down menu."
• A catalog or selection of items: Used more broadly to indicate a range of choices or options.
  • Example: "The event had a menu of activities for attendees to enjoy."