What does prelunch mean?
Prelunch refers to a meal eaten before lunch, typically in the morning. This term is often used in British English to describe a meal that is eaten between breakfast and lunch. The prelunch meal is usually lighter than breakfast and heavier than a snack. It is a convenient way to refer to a meal that is eaten at a time when the traditional breakfast and lunch meals are not applicable. The term prelunch is not commonly used in American English, where 'breakfast' is the preferred term. However, it is a useful term for describing a meal that is eaten at a time when the traditional breakfast and lunch meals are not suitable. In some cases, prelunch may refer to a meal that is eaten in the late morning or early afternoon, depending on the context. Overall, prelunch is a useful term for describing a meal that is eaten before lunch, and it is a convenient way to refer to a meal that is eaten at a time when the traditional breakfast and lunch meals are not applicable.
nounA meal eaten before lunch, typically in the morning.
- A meal eaten before lunch, typically in the morning.
"I had a hearty prelunch of eggs and toast before heading to the office."
"I had a hearty prelunch of eggs and toast before heading to the office."
"My prelunch of oatmeal and fruit gave me the energy to tackle the day."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of prelunch
The term prelunch is derived from the words 'pre' meaning before and 'lunch' meaning the meal eaten in the middle of the day. The term is thought to have originated in the mid-20th century in British English as a convenient way to refer to a meal that is eaten between breakfast and lunch.
How prelunch is actually used
Prelunch is a relatively informal term and is often used in British English. It is not commonly used in American English, where 'breakfast' is the preferred term.