noun
deli
DEH-lee
noun
1
A shop selling prepared foods like cold cuts, cheeses, and sandwiches, ready to eat.
"We grabbed sandwiches from the deli on the corner."
"The deli counter had a great selection of sliced meats."
How to Use Deli
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA shop or counter selling ready-to-eat foods like cold meats and sandwiches.
Common pairings
deli counter
deli sandwich
corner deli
Word Forms
delis plural, Delis plural
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We grabbed sandwiches from the _____ on the corner.
Etymology
A shortened form of "delicatessen," in use since the 1950s.