Dinner is generally defined as the main meal of the day, typically eaten in the evening in modern Western cultures. It is often the largest and most formal meal, sometimes involving multiple courses such as appetizers, a main course, and dessert
. Historically, dinner referred to the main meal eaten around midday, but over time, especially from the 16th to 19th centuries, it shifted to the evening
. The term "dinner" can also refer to a formal social occasion where a meal is served, such as a banquet or a dinner party
. In some regions and contexts, dinner might still mean a midday meal, particularly among working-class communities in parts of the UK
. Dinner times vary by culture and location; for example, in the United States, dinner typically occurs between about 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., with an average peak around 6:19 p.m.
. Dinner differs from supper, which is usually a lighter, less formal meal eaten later in the evening, often at home
. Lunch is generally a lighter midday meal, distinct from dinner when dinner is eaten in the evening
. In summary:
- Dinner: main, often largest meal of the day, usually in the evening in modern usage
- Historically: main meal at midday
- Can also mean a formal meal event or banquet
- Dinner time varies culturally, commonly early to mid-evening
- Distinct from supper (lighter evening meal) and lunch (midday meal)
