# bento

/ˈbɛntoʊ/ (US) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bento
Updated: 2026-09-28

## Definition

a Japanese-style meal that is served in a box with different sections for rice, fish or meat, and vegetables. You can buy these to eat for lunch at work, school, or while traveling.

For teachers: a single-portion takeout or home-packed meal common in Japanese cuisine, traditionally served in a tray or box with internal compartments. Typically consists of a balanced arrangement of rice, protein, and pickled or cooked vegetables.

## Examples

- I bought a delicious salmon bento for my lunch today.
- Many commuters in Japan pick up a fresh bento at the train station before starting a long journey.
- The art of the bento lies in the aesthetic arrangement of colors and textures, ensuring that the meal is as visually appealing as it is nutritionally balanced.

## Usage notes

- Often used as a modifier before other nouns, such as 'bento box'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.