banquet
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbæŋkwɪt/
KK: /ˈbæŋkwɪt/
noun
Definition
A large and formal meal for many people, often held to celebrate a special event or honor someone.
Example
The city hosted a grand banquet to celebrate the anniversary of its founding.
Conversation
Are you going to the big banquet this Saturday?
Yeah, I heard it's going to be really fancy!
I can't wait to see what kind of food they'll serve at the banquet.
Same here! I hope they have a great dessert selection.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
feast
gala
repast
Antonyms
fast
snack
supper
transitive verb
Definition
To hold a formal meal or feast in honor of someone or something.
Example
They decided to banquet the guests at the grand hall after the ceremony.
Tense Forms
Past: banqueted
Past Participle: banqueted
Conversation
Are you going to the banquet this weekend?
Yes, I heard it’s going to be a great event!
I can't wait to see what they have planned for the banquet.
Root Explanation
Banquet comes from the Old French word *banquet*, which means a small meal or feast, derived from *banque* (meaning a bench or table). The word reflects the idea of a meal served at a table or bench.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'bench' or 'table' where people gather to enjoy a meal together — that's what a banquet is.
Visually Confused Words
blanque