Dinner
UK /["/ˈdɪnə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈdɪnər/"]/
Definition
the main meal of the day, eaten either in the middle of the day or in the evening
In simple words: the main meal of the day, usually eaten in the evening
Examples
- I had spaghetti for dinner last night.
- What time is dinner usually served?
- We invited our friends over for dinner on Friday.
- She made a delicious dinner that everyone enjoyed.
- Dinner is the most important meal of the day for some families.
Usage notes
Used to refer to the main meal, often in a social or family setting. Not typically used to describe lunch or breakfast.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of 'dine' for dinner — both are about eating a nice meal.
Collocations
- delicious
- excellent
- good
- table
- things
- plates
- elegant
- fancy
- lavish
- give
- hold
- host
- party
- engagement
- dance
Synonyms
- mess
Antonyms
- breakfast
- lunch
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'supper', which can refer to a lighter evening meal in some cultures.
- Using 'dinner' to refer to lunch in a formal context, which is incorrect.
- 'Dinner' can imply a more formal meal, so avoid casual settings.