# caters

/ˈkeɪtɝz/ (US) · /kˈeɪtəz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/caters
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

to provide what is needed or wanted for a specific group of people. It often refers to providing food and drink for a party or meeting.

For teachers: to provide food and drink for a social event; to provide a particular group of people with the things they need or want. Often takes the preposition 'to' or 'for' depending on the object.

## Examples

- The restaurant caters for large wedding parties.
- This new streaming service specifically caters to fans of classic horror movies and independent documentaries.
- While the primary curriculum focuses on core subjects, the school also caters to students with exceptional artistic talents through its specialized afternoon workshops.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The hotel caters the tourists" but "The hotel caters to the tourists" — When meaning to provide for a group's needs, the verb requires the preposition 'to' or 'for'.

## Usage notes

- The verb is often followed by 'to' (meeting a need) or 'for' (providing a service).

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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.