ENGLISH
REFERENCE

greasy spoon

idiom
Meaning

An inexpensive diner or other informal restaurant, especially one specializing in frying or grilling.


Origin

disputed origin

American English, 1920s.

Examples
SIMPLE

We often grab a cheap breakfast at the local greasy spoon.

CONTEXTUAL

After the long drive, we stopped at a greasy spoon for some coffee and eggs.

COMPLEX

Tucked away in the industrial district, the small greasy spoon served hearty meals to tired workers who appreciated the simple, no-frills menu.

Anchors to
Related idioms5entries
  1. 01

    born with a silver spoon in one's mouth

    Born rich, or into a wealthy family.

  2. 02

    eat up with a spoon

    To accept (something) very eagerly.

  3. 03

    silver spoon

    Wealth passed down or inherited.

  4. 04

    spoon bowl

    A match between the last placed and second last placed team in an Australian sports league, derived from the fact that the team that finishes last is informally awarded the "wooden spoon"

  5. 05

    wooden spoon

    An ironic prize for finishing last in a competition.

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