supper
- 01 A2 Elementary
a meal eaten in the evening, often a lighter or more informal one than dinner.
the final meal of the day, typically eaten in the evening. In some dialects, it is synonymous with dinner, while in others it refers to a lighter meal taken later.
Simple“We usually have a light supper of soup and bread around seven o'clock.”
In context“After the theatre performance, the group gathered at a local bistro for a late supper and a discussion of the play.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a meal from a fish and chip shop that includes chips.
a meal from a traditional chip shop consisting of a specific deep-fried item served with a portion of chips.
Simple“I think I'll stop at the chippy for a sausage supper on my way home.”
In context“In many parts of Scotland and Northern Ireland, ordering a 'haddock supper' implies a complete meal of fried fish accompanied by chips.”
UsageCommonly used in Scotland and Northern England; the main item (e.g., fish, haggis, or sausage) precedes the word 'supper'.
Synonyms
From Middle English soper, from Old French soper, from sope (“soup”). Compare French souper.
From sup + -er.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.