banquet
noun (countable)
UK/ˈbæŋ.kwɪt/US/ˈbæŋ.kwɪt/
A large formal meal or feast for many people, often held in celebration of a special event or occasion.
Example Sentences
They hosted a grand banquet to celebrate their wedding anniversary.
The royal banquet was attended by all the visiting dignitaries.
At the end of the conference, participants were invited to a lavish banquet featuring live entertainment and an exquisite multi-course meal.
She planned a surprise banquet for her parents’ 50th wedding anniversary.
The charity gala included an opulent banquet held in the ballroom of the historic mansion.
A formal banquet was organized to honor the achievements of the newly graduated students.
In ancient times, banquets often lasted through the night, complete with music, dancing, and a lavish array of exotic dishes prepared for the elite.
We concluded the festival with a spectacular banquet that celebrated the vibrant artistry, cultural exchanges, and newfound friendships forged during the event.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
How to Use
An elaborate feast generally organized for ceremonial or celebratory events.“Banquet” typically refers to a formal or grand meal organized for significant occasions such as weddings, corporate events, or prestigious ceremonies. Guests often dress up for banquets, and the meal may feature multiple courses, speeches, toasts, and various forms of entertainment. When using “banquet” in conversation, context is key: “We attended a charity banquet last night” suggests a gathering that goes beyond a standard dinner. You can also use it metaphorically, such as “a banquet of choices,” meaning there are plentiful options. In event planning or hospitality, a banquet might involve professional catering, a set menu, and detailed seating arrangements. By using the term “banquet,” you convey both the formality and the celebratory nature of a meal. Whether you’re describing a small gathering with close friends or a large-scale corporate affair, “banquet” underscores the idea of intentional festivities and elegant hospitality.
Alternatives
If you want to describe a similar gathering or meal but don’t necessarily want to use the word “banquet,” consider alternatives like “feast,” “gala dinner,” “reception,” or “banquet-style dinner.” A “feast” generally conveys abundance and indulgence, often without the formal connotation of a banquet. Meanwhile, “gala dinner” brings in the sense of spectacle and festivity, typically accompanied by entertainment or fundraising. A “reception” implies a post-ceremony gathering, often involving food and drinks but not always as lavish. When you say “banquet-style dinner,” you preserve the grandeur but highlight that it’s a meal served in a banquet’s fashion—possibly with multiple courses or buffet arrangements. Each term carries distinct nuances, so selecting the right word depends on the level of formality, the occasion, and the expected atmosphere. By carefully choosing among these synonyms, you can convey the appropriate tone for your event or context—whether it’s a large wedding, an awards ceremony, or just a celebratory dinner among friends and family.
Writing
When writing about a banquet, focus on the atmosphere, menu, and purpose of the event. Start by setting the scene—mention the setting, décor, and attire to immerse readers in the formality or grandeur. Use vivid language to describe the flavors, aromas, and presentation of the meal, ensuring that you capture the festivity of the moment. If the banquet features speeches, awards, or a specific ceremony, explain how these elements contribute to the event’s overall significance. Portray the sense of occasion, whether it’s celebrating a milestone, fundraising for a charity, or honoring someone’s achievements. Including sensory details—like the clinking of glasses or the soft hum of conversation—can help bring the gathering to life. Ultimately, weaving together descriptive language with a clear sense of purpose allows readers to appreciate the banquet’s cultural, social, or personal importance.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, the word “banquet” might come up when talking about special dinners or events, but it can also inject a bit of humor or exaggeration into a casual chat. For instance, you might say, “I invited a few friends over for dinner and ended up cooking a whole banquet,” to imply you prepared far more food than necessary. If you attended a formal event, you could mention, “The company hosted a banquet to celebrate this year’s achievements,” to convey the scale and importance of the gathering. In a more lighthearted context, you might describe a friend’s superb cooking abilities by saying, “Every time she cooks, it feels like we’re at a banquet.” In short, using “banquet” can add a sense of occasion to any meal, and it’s a fun way to highlight abundance, quality, or festivity—whether you’re being literal or figurative.
Etymology
The term “banquet” traces back to the French word “banque,” meaning a bench or long table, which in turn has roots in the old Italian word “banchetto.” Historically, gatherings for feasting or important dinners often involved guests sitting together at lengthy tables or benches to share communal meals. Over time, the concept of a meal shared on a bench evolved into a more elaborate affair, symbolizing hospitality, celebration, and ceremony. In medieval Europe, banquets served as markers of social status, where nobles showcased their wealth through generous spreads of food and drink. Today, while the focus might be on enjoyment and celebration rather than social hierarchy, the word still carries a sense of grandeur. Modern banquets may feature extensive menus, formal dress codes, and sometimes speeches or presentations, reflecting the age-old tradition of gathering around a table to share a lavish meal in honor of a special occasion or achievement.
