banquet

The word “banquet” means a large, formal meal held to celebrate a special occasion. In plain terms, an elaborate, formal feast, usually for a celebration.

“Banquet” is pronounced BANGK-wiht (/ˈbæŋkwɪt/ in IPA).

Here is “banquet” used in a sentence: “The wedding banquet featured seven courses.”

Depending on how it is used, “banquet” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “banquet” comes from Italian. From Italian banchetto, literally "a little bench" — describing a light snack eaten sitting on a small bench, which later grew into the grand-feast sense we use today.

“Banquet” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Banquet” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a large, formal meal held to celebrate a special occasion.

A banquet is a large, formal meal held to celebrate a special occasion, typically larger in scale and more ceremonial than a regular dinner party. A dinner party is usually a smaller, more casual gathering without the formal structure or scale associated with a banquet.

Yes, 'banquet' can be used as a verb meaning to take part in or host a lavish feast, as in 'they banqueted long into the night.' This verb usage is less common today than the noun form describing the event itself.

A banquet and a feast both describe large, elaborate meals, but 'banquet' typically implies a more formal, organized event tied to a specific occasion, such as an awards banquet. 'Feast' can describe both formal and informal abundant meals, including everyday celebrations.