What does "catering" mean?

1. (food service business) the work of providing food and drinks for events like parties, weddings, or business meetings. 2. (providing what is needed) the act of providing what a person or group wants or needs.

How do you use "catering"?

Often used as an uncountable noun or as a modifier before another noun, such as 'catering company'. Usually followed by the preposition 'to' or 'for'.

catering

n. · v.

US //ˈkeɪtɝɪŋ// UK //kˈeɪtəɹɪŋ// cater·ing

1 food service business (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the work of providing food and drinks for events like parties, weddings, or business meetings.

the professional service of providing food and drink, typically for social events or within an institutional framework.

Example

We need to find a company that handles the catering for the wedding.

Example

The university outsourced its catering to a private firm to reduce overhead costs while maintaining a consistent standard of service for students.

Usage

Often used as an uncountable noun or as a modifier before another noun, such as 'catering company'.
- food service
- hospitality
2 providing what is needed (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the act of providing what a person or group wants or needs.

the present participle of 'cater', meaning to provide what is required or desired by a specific audience.

Example

The new hotel is catering to business travellers who need fast internet.

Example

By catering specifically to the needs of elderly residents, the community centre has seen a significant increase in daily attendance.

Usage

Usually followed by the preposition 'to' or 'for'.
- neglecting
- ignoring

Last updated June 20, 2026