Difference between Supper and Dinner
What's in a word? With regard to the proper usage of "supper" and "dinner", a lot apparently! Many people all over the world hold the meaning of the word in dispute, and the fact that they are both classified as "main meals" in most dictionaries doesn't help make defining them any easier. While both words can be synonymous with each other to some degree, there remain enough regional and cultural variations in practice to ensure that both words get equal usage in everyday conversation. Let's take a look at some of their more significant attributes.
Origin And Distinctions
Traditionally, the British English definition of "dinner" as used by the upper-middle and middle classes was a formal evening meal, which contrasted with the more informal "supper". This meal followed "tea", which was actually a light meal comprised of sandwiches and tea, of course. "Dinner" was traditionally used by the lower and middle classes to refer to the last main meal of the day, which was typically served in the evening. In any case, the class distinctions between the two terms aren't as widely used today, and they are virtually interchangeable among the different classes.
In the United States, "supper" is traditionally used to refer to the last main meal of the day, particularly in the South. Elsewhere in the country, "dinner" is served at midday or soon after, especially during special days. In such cases, there may be a lighter meal served later in the day called "supper".
Significance
In many parts of the world, the term "dinner" is used to refer to a banquet or a formal meal that is held during special events or holidays, or to honor a distinguished guest. In less formal settings, a later, lighter meal may be served, which is commonly referred to as "supper". In most cases, "supper" is generally served as a less formal meal, which may or may not follow a larger and more formal "dinner" held earlier in the day.
Time And Makeup
While the two terms are often used interchangeably-and may in fact be virtually the same meal-people from many areas in the United States expect a "dinner" to be larger, more grandiose affair. Even in less formal settings, this "dinner" is expected to be a full meal, whether it is served at midday-in which case there may be a lighter "supper" served later in the evening-or whether it is served in the evening. In any case, "lunch" and "supper" are generally regarded as lighter meals, particularly among families that make a distinction between "dinner" and "supper".
Summary
Dinner
- May be a more formal affair used to honor a special guest or to commemorate a special occasion
- Usually denotes a full meal
- May be served at midday, in which case a lighter "supper" may be served later in the evening.
- Traditionally used by the lower and middle classes in Britain to refer to the last main meal of the day, which is typically served in the evening
Supper
- Often used to distinguish it from "dinner", which is a heavier meal served at midday
- Is interchangeable with "dinner" in many cultures
- Often served as an evening meal, after a heavier dinner was served earlier in the day
