dinnertime 🔊
Meaning of dinnertime
The time of day when dinner is typically eaten, usually in the evening.
Key Difference
Unlike general meal-related terms, 'dinnertime' specifically refers to the customary time for dinner, not just the meal itself.
Example of dinnertime
- At dinnertime, the family gathered around the table to share stories from their day.
- The restaurant offers special discounts if you visit during dinnertime.
Synonyms
supper 🔊
Meaning of supper
An evening meal, often lighter than dinner.
Key Difference
'Supper' is typically a more informal or lighter meal compared to 'dinnertime,' which emphasizes the time rather than the meal type.
Example of supper
- They enjoyed a simple supper of soup and bread after sunset.
- In some cultures, supper is served later than traditional dinnertime.
evening meal 🔊
Meaning of evening meal
The main meal eaten in the evening.
Key Difference
While 'evening meal' is a general term, 'dinnertime' specifically refers to the customary time for eating dinner.
Example of evening meal
- The evening meal was delayed due to the late meeting.
- Preparing an elaborate evening meal has become a weekend tradition for them.
dinner hour 🔊
Meaning of dinner hour
The specific hour or period designated for dinner.
Key Difference
'Dinner hour' is more precise regarding timing, whereas 'dinnertime' can be a broader period.
Example of dinner hour
- The dinner hour at the hotel is strictly between 7 PM and 9 PM.
- During the dinner hour, the streets quiet down as people head home to eat.
meal time (evening) 🔊
Meaning of meal time (evening)
The scheduled time for eating the evening meal.
Key Difference
'Meal time' is a general term and can refer to any meal, while 'dinnertime' is evening-specific.
Example of meal time (evening)
- The school cafeteria also serves food during evening meal time for late students.
- Setting a consistent meal time helps regulate digestion.
feast time 🔊
Meaning of feast time
A time dedicated to a large or celebratory meal.
Key Difference
'Feast time' implies a grand or special meal, unlike 'dinnertime,' which is routine.
Example of feast time
- During the holidays, feast time often extends late into the night.
- The village celebrated harvest season with a communal feast time.
nightly repast 🔊
Meaning of nightly repast
A formal or literary term for an evening meal.
Key Difference
'Nightly repast' is more poetic and less commonly used than 'dinnertime.'
Example of nightly repast
- The novel described the family’s nightly repast in great detail.
- Their nightly repast included candlelight and classical music.
evening repast 🔊
Meaning of evening repast
A formal term for the meal taken in the evening.
Key Difference
Similar to 'nightly repast,' but slightly more neutral in tone compared to 'dinnertime.'
Example of evening repast
- The king’s evening repast was a grand affair with multiple courses.
- After a long day, a quiet evening repast was all she desired.
sunset meal 🔊
Meaning of sunset meal
A meal eaten around sunset.
Key Difference
This term emphasizes the connection to sunset, whereas 'dinnertime' is more time-based.
Example of sunset meal
- Farmers often have their sunset meal before heading to bed early.
- In coastal towns, the sunset meal is accompanied by a view of the ocean.
last meal of the day 🔊
Meaning of last meal of the day
The final meal consumed before sleeping.
Key Difference
This phrase focuses on the sequence of meals, while 'dinnertime' is about the time.
Example of last meal of the day
- Doctors recommend keeping the last meal of the day light for better digestion.
- Their last meal of the day often includes herbal tea and a small dessert.
Conclusion
- 'Dinnertime' is a culturally and socially significant part of the day when families and friends come together to eat and connect.
- 'Supper' is best used in casual or regional contexts where the meal is lighter or later in the evening.
- 'Evening meal' is a neutral alternative when specificity about the time isn't necessary.
- 'Dinner hour' should be used when referring to a strict or scheduled dining period.
- 'Meal time (evening)' works when discussing routines or schedules without emphasizing dinner specifically.
- 'Feast time' is ideal for festive or large gatherings rather than everyday meals.
- 'Nightly repast' and 'evening repast' add a literary or formal touch to descriptions of evening dining.
- 'Sunset meal' is fitting for poetic or nature-related contexts where the setting matters.
- 'Last meal of the day' is useful when discussing dietary habits or health-related meal timing.