MEAL Meaning and
Definition
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A meal is a specific time of day or occasion when food is consumed, typically providing nourishment and satisfaction to individuals or a group of people. It usually involves a combination of different food items and is often accompanied by beverages. Meals can vary in size and complexity, ranging from simple and light snacks to elaborate and multi-course feasts.
The term "meal" is commonly used to refer to breakfast, lunch, or dinner, which are the main meals of the day in many cultures. Each meal has its own traditional timing and specific types of food associated with it. Breakfast is typically the first meal of the day, consumed in the morning, often consisting of foods like cereal, toast, eggs, or fruit. Lunch is usually consumed around midday and may include dishes such as sandwiches, soups, salads, or pasta. Dinner, on the other hand, is commonly eaten in the evening and often involves a more substantial meal with dishes like meat, vegetables, grains, and desserts.
Moreover, "meal" can also refer to a specific prepared food item, especially one that is consumed in a single serving. For example, terms like "fast food meal" or "boxed meal" indicate a complete combination of dishes or items that are presented or packaged together. Whether enjoyed alone or in the company of others, meals are essential for sustenance, social interaction, and cultural practices, playing a significant role in human life and culinary traditions.
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• Ground grain not sifted from the bran or coarser portion.
• The food taken at one time; a repast; a part; a fragment; piecemeal, by separate pieces; by fragments.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for MEAL *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for MEAL
Etymology of MEAL
The word "meal" has its origins in Old English, specifically from the word "melu" or "mǣl". This Old English term referred to a measure of ground, usually grain, that was used for cooking or baking. Over time, the meaning of "meal" evolved to also include the final product of cooking or grinding, especially when referring to ground or crushed edible substances. Today, "meal" commonly refers to a portion of food served for eating, such as breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Idioms with the word MEAL
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square (meal)
The idiom "square meal" refers to a balanced and wholesome meal that provides adequate nourishment.
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make a meal (out) of sth
The idiom "make a meal (out) of something" means to overemphasize or exaggerate the importance or significance of something that is not deserving of such attention. It suggests that someone is making something seem more difficult, complicated, or time-consuming than it actually is.
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a meal ticket
The idiom "a meal ticket" refers to a person, opportunity, or possession that provides a reliable source of income, financial support, or sustenance. It typically implies dependence on an external factor for one's livelihood or well-being.
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fix sth for (a meal)
The idiom "fix sth for (a meal)" means to prepare or cook something specifically for a meal. It implies the act of putting effort into making food, often with the intention of satisfying hunger or providing a satisfying meal.
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make a meal of sth
The idiom "make a meal of something" means to unnecessarily complicate or exaggerate a task or situation, often by taking more time, effort, or attention than is necessary or appropriate. It implies that someone is making something more difficult or complicated than it needs to be.
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a few fries short of a Happy Meal
The idiom "a few fries short of a Happy Meal" is used to describe someone who is perceived as being unintelligent, lacking common sense, or mentally deficient. It suggests that the person is missing something essential or crucial, similar to how a Happy Meal from a fast-food restaurant would typically include a specific number of fries.
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make a meal on
The idiom "make a meal on" means to extract complete usefulness or satisfaction from something, especially when it may not seem sufficient or substantial. It implies maximizing or making the most out of limited opportunities or resources.
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eat (a meal) out
To "eat out" is an idiom that means to dine at a restaurant or any place other than one's own home, where a meal is usually prepared and consumed.
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a square meal
The idiom "a square meal" refers to a nourishing, substantial, and satisfying meal that provides all the necessary nutrients and sustenance one needs to feel full and satisfied. It implies having a well-balanced and complete meal.
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that was a game, meal, walk, etc. and a half!
The idiom "that was a game, meal, walk, etc. and a half!" is used to express an intense, remarkable, or exceptionally enjoyable experience. It is often used to emphasize the extent or magnitude of something, indicating that it far exceeded expectations or was exceptionally good. It implies that the experience was so remarkable that it could be considered more than just its apparent duration or purpose.
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Enjoy your meal,
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cat in the meal-tub
The idiom "cat in the meal-tub" refers to a situation where something potentially dangerous or harmful is lurking in a seemingly innocuous or ordinary setting. It suggests that there may be hidden risks or problems in a seemingly safe or comfortable situation.
Similar spelling words for MEAL
- melia,
- MELO,
- Meahl,
- Mele,
- melee,
- Melle,
- mealie,
- Meola,
- Mello,
- Meli,
- mehl,
- mealy,
- Mel,
- mellow,
- Mell,
- mealey,
- Mella,
- meloy,
- Mellie,
- mewl.
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