HIGH TEA Meaning and
Definition
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High tea is a British tradition that emerged in the 19th century, primarily as a meal for the working class and later became more popular among the upper classes. It refers to a light meal, typically served in the late afternoon or early evening between 4 pm and 6 pm. High tea is different from the more formal and elaborate afternoon tea (also known as low tea) traditionally served by the upper classes.
The name "high tea" can be misleading, as it does not connote a formal affair. In fact, it originated from the fact that this tea is eaten at a dining table, where individuals would sit on high-back dining chairs. The meal itself generally consists of a variety of savory dishes, such as sandwiches, scones, cheese and crackers, quiches, and pastries like cakes and biscuits.
High tea often includes a pot of hot tea, accompanied by milk and sugar, although other beverages like coffee or even champagne may be served as well. Compared to afternoon tea, high tea is considered heartier and more substantial as it includes dishes that can serve as a full meal.
High tea gained popularity due to its practicality, allowing people to have a substantial meal after a day of work, rather than just indulging in tea, cakes, and pastries. Today, high tea has become more flexible and can be enjoyed at tearooms, hotels, and even arranged as special occasions or events, providing a balance between a light lunch and a heavy dinner.
Common Misspellings for HIGH TEA
- gigh tea
- bigh tea
- nigh tea
- jigh tea
- uigh tea
- yigh tea
- hugh tea
- hjgh tea
- hkgh tea
- hogh tea
- h9gh tea
- h8gh tea
- hifh tea
- hivh tea
- hibh tea
- hihh tea
- hiyh tea
- hith tea
- higg tea
- hightea
Etymology of HIGH TEA
The term "high tea" originated in Britain in the 18th century. The etymology of the word "high" in this context does not refer to the elevation or height, but rather to the idea of it being a more substantial or "higher" meal compared to the lighter afternoon tea.
High tea was traditionally a working-class meal served in the late afternoon or early evening, around 5 or 6 pm. It was a substantial meal that included various dishes such as meat, potatoes, vegetables, bread, and cakes, often served alongside tea. This meal was typically enjoyed by laborers after a long day of work, as it was more of a main meal than a social gathering or leisurely event.
In contrast, afternoon tea, sometimes also called "low tea", was a more refined and elegant affair, introduced by the upper classes in the 1840s.
Similar spelling words for HIGH TEA
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