What does "menu" mean?

1. (restaurant food list) a list of the food and drinks you can order at a restaurant or café. 2. (computing options) a list of choices on a computer screen that helps you use a program. 3. (general list or agenda) a list of things to be discussed or dealt with.

How do you use "menu"?

Often used with the preposition 'on' to describe what is available. Commonly used in phrases like 'drop-down menu' or 'main menu'.

1 restaurant food list (n.)
A1 Beginner Cooking

a list of the food and drinks you can order at a restaurant or café.

a comprehensive list of food and beverage items available for purchase at a dining establishment.

Example

The waiter handed us the menu as soon as we sat down at the table.

Example

The restaurant offers an extensive seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and a curated selection of regional wines.

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'on' to describe what is available.
- bill of fare
- card
2 computing options (n.)
A2 Elementary Computing

a list of choices on a computer screen that helps you use a program.

a set of commands or options presented to a user in a graphical user interface.

Example

Click on the 'File' menu to save your document before closing the window.

Example

The latest software update redesigned the navigation menu to be more intuitive for touchscreen users.

Usage

Commonly used in phrases like 'drop-down menu' or 'main menu'.
- list
- options

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3 general list or agenda (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

a list of things to be discussed or dealt with.

a figurative list or agenda of items, tasks, or topics for consideration.

Example

Tax reform is the first item on the political menu for the new government.

Example

The summit's menu of topics included climate change, international trade agreements, and regional security concerns.

Origin

Borrowed from French menu. Doublet of menudo and minute.