Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/bəˈfeɪ/

Definitions

• Buffet (noun): A meal where guests serve themselves from a variety of dishes, typically set out on a table.
• Buffet (noun, in a different context): A strike or blow, typically repeated or forceful, often with a sense of impact or resistance.
• Buffet (verb): To strike, hit, or batter, especially with force or repeated blows.
• Buffet (verb, in another sense): To move or sway with difficulty, typically due to wind, waves, or some other external force.

Usage Examples

• "They enjoyed a lavish buffet at the wedding reception."
• "The storm buffeted the coast for hours, causing widespread damage."
• "She had to buffet the strong winds while hiking up the mountain."

Etymology

Derived from French "buffet," meaning "a blow" or "a strike," which was first used in the early 16th century. The culinary meaning of "buffet" emerged in the 18th century, reflecting the idea of "striking" a table with a variety of food dishes. The verb usage of "buffet" to describe repeated striking or forceful action developed later in the 17th century.

Synonyms

• Meal: banquet, spread, feast
• Strike: hit, pound, batter, thrash
• Move: sway, rock, toss, jolt

Antonyms

• Calm
• Still
• Gentle

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the word is often pronounced with a slightly softer 'f' sound, more like /ˈbʊfɪt/.
• In American English, the emphasis is on the first syllable, typically pronounced /ˈbʌfeɪ/.

Historical Usage

The use of the word "buffet" dates back to the 16th century and initially referred to a striking or hitting action. Over time, it evolved to describe a variety of scenarios, from the type of meal we know today to the physical action of being struck or tossed by forces like wind or waves. The concept of a self-serve meal, commonly referred to as a buffet, became popular in the 18th century, particularly in Europe and later in America.

Cultural Nuances

The idea of a buffet as a meal reflects a cultural shift towards casual dining and social eating. In many cultures, buffets are associated with large gatherings, celebrations, and feasts. The concept of "buffet" is also used metaphorically in various cultural contexts to refer to challenges or difficulties one faces, such as being "buffeted by winds" or "buffeted by fate," indicating the idea of resistance or adversity.

More Information

Buffets are common at large social events such as weddings, banquets, and corporate gatherings. The format allows guests to choose from a variety of dishes, often including salads, hot meals, and desserts. In modern usage, "buffet" has also come to refer to places like restaurants that serve food in this style. Historically, buffets were seen as a way to encourage guests to interact and sample a wide range of foods. In some contexts, the verb "buffet" still refers to being struck or battered by physical forces, such as the wind or ocean waves, and has also found its way into more figurative uses.