Definition

A gathering where each person brings a dish of food to share with others.

Example

We had a potluck dinner, and everyone brought their favorite dish to share.

Conversation

Are you going to the potluck this Saturday?

Yes, I heard everyone is bringing their favorite dishes.

I can't wait to try all the different foods at the potluck.

Same here! It’s always fun to see what everyone comes up with.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Potluck is formed from "pot" (from Old English *pott*, meaning a container for cooking) and "luck" (from Middle English *luc*, meaning chance or fortune). The term refers to a meal where each guest brings a dish, relying on the chance of what others will provide.

Memory Tip

Imagine a gathering where everyone brings a dish in a 'pot' — that's why 'potluck' means a meal based on the 'luck' of what others contribute.

Visually Confused Words