Meaning & Definition of word "Cafeteria"

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    Cafeteria

    /ˌkæfəˈtɪəriə/

    noun:

    • 1. A self-service restaurant or dining hall.
      • Example: The university cafeteria offers a variety of meal options for students.
    • 2. A place where food is served to a group, often in schools or workplaces.
      • Example: Employees often gather in the cafeteria for lunch breaks.
    • 3. An establishment where meals are served, typically with a layout that allows customers to choose their food from a counter.
      • Example: After visiting the museum, we decided to eat at the cafeteria nearby.

    Etymology

    From Spanish 'cafetería', from 'café' meaning 'coffee'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    all-you-can-eat cafeteria:

    A cafeteria where customers pay a fixed price to eat as much as they want.

    school cafeteria:

    A dining facility in a school where students eat meals.

    hospital cafeteria:

    A dining area in a hospital providing food to patients and visitors.

    Related Words

    canteen:

    A place where food and drink are served, especially in a work or school context.

    dining room:

    A room in a home or establishment where meals are eaten.

    bistro:

    A small, casual restaurant serving moderately priced food.

    Slang Meanings of cafeteria

    Meaning: The lunchroom

    Example Sentence: Let's meet in the lunchroom and discuss the project.

    Meaning: The food court

    Example Sentence: I'll grab a bite at the food court.