Suppertime is a word commonly used to refer to the time of the day when people have their evening meal. Its spelling can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈsʌpərtaɪm/. The first syllable, "sup", is pronounced with the short u sound, while the remainder of the word is pronounced with the long i sound. The e at the end of the word is silent. The correct spelling of this word is significant, as misspelling it could cause confusion in written communication.
Suppertime is a noun that refers to the designated time for individuals or households to have their evening meal. It is typically used in informal and colloquial contexts to indicate the time when dinner or the last meal of the day is consumed. The term "suppertime" can vary in specific meaning depending on cultural and regional differences.
In general, suppertime commonly occurs in the late afternoon or early evening hours, with the exact time varying depending on personal schedules and cultural customs. It is the time when family members or individuals gather together to share a meal and engage in conversation or quality time with one another.
The term itself derives from the combination of the words "supper" and "time," with "supper" referring to the evening meal and "time" indicating the specific hour or period. Suppertime often carries connotations of warmth, comfort, and familial togetherness, as it is a time when loved ones come together to unwind, catch up, and foster a sense of bonding.
While suppertime is not limited to a particular type of cuisine or dietary routine, it usually implies a more substantial and leisurely meal compared to other meals throughout the day. It represents a pause in daily activities, where individuals can nourish their bodies and enjoy the company of their loved ones or simply relax after a long day. Overall, suppertime serves not only as a time of sustenance but also as a shared experience that promotes social and familial connections.
The word "suppertime" has a straightforward etymology. It is a compound word comprising "supper" and "time".
"Supper" originated from the Old French word "souper", which referred to the evening meal. It is derived from the Latin word "cenare", meaning "to dine". Over time, "supper" became a term specifically used for the evening meal, usually consumed after sunset.
As for "time", it is derived from the Old English word "tīma", which signifies "a limited period or while".
Thus, when combined, "suppertime" simply refers to the designated time or period when supper, the evening meal, is consumed.