supper - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
supper Word Meanings
- the evening meal, typically after work, often lighter or informal
- a social or family meal held in the evening
- in some regions the evening meal may be called supper instead of dinner
supper Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
supper Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsʌp.ər/
US
/ˈsʌp.ɚ/
supper Word Etymology
(a) Root decomposition: no prefix; root sup meaning to eat; suffix -er forms the noun. (b) Historical origin: from Old French souper meaning to eat the evening meal, from Latin suppa meaning bread soaked in broth. (c) Memory image: picture a candlelit table where a family gathers for supper in the evening.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
In American and British English, supper is an informal, usually lighter evening meal that may be eaten after work or school, often around the early evening hours. It contrasts with a larger midday dinner in some households and with a formal late-evening meal in others. Learners should note that many modern speakers prefer dinner, so supper can sound old fashioned or regional. You might hear We had supper after the project, or The children ate their supper before bedtime. In literature and media, supper can evoke family warmth, casual hospitality, or rural tradition.
Usage Reminders
- Remember that supper is not always dinner
- Supper signaling can feel old-fashioned or regional
- Use supper for casual, early-evening meals
- Dictionaries note historical or literary usage
- Avoid mixing supper with late-night snacks unless context calls for it
Common Misconceptions
- Supper and dinner are always interchangeable
- Supper means a late-night snack
- Supper is the most common term in all English-speaking regions
- Supper is only used in rural areas
- Supper is a formal meal
Thinking Differences
For English learners, supper signals a regional or older tone and usually implies a lighter, casual dinner; it’s less common in modern urban speech, where dinner is the default.
Learning Tips
- Learn to spot supper as a regional/old-fashioned term
- Compare with dinner in the same sentence to judge formality
- Practice with both casual and literary examples
- Note that American usage may vary by family tradition
- Use a dictionary note on register and time-of-day
- Record sentences to feel the tone
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'supper'?
A.Breakfast
B.Lunch
C.Dinner
D.Evening meal
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'supper' used correctly?
A.I had supper in the morning.
B.Let's go out for supper tonight.
C.She cooked dinner for supper.
D.He ate breakfast for supper.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'supper'?
A.Brunch
B.Snack
C.Dessert
D.Feast
Step 4: Opposite Words
What would be the opposite of 'supper'?
A.Midnight snack
B.Breakfast
C.Lunch
D.Tea time
Step 5: Mastery
When would you typically have 'supper'?
A.In the morning
B.In the evening
C.In the afternoon
D.Late at night
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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