What is repast? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of repast in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of repast

repastnoun

REPAST

/rɪˈpɑːst//rɪˈpæst/

Where does the word repast come from?

The word "repast" is a Old French term that made its way into Middle English during the Middle Ages. In Old French, the word was "repos," which means "rest" or "refreshment." It eventually evolved into the Old French word "repast" or "repass," which meant "restful eating" or "enjoyable meal." Over time, the French and English languages diverged, and the word "repast" fell out of commonly used French. In English, the word has retained its original sense and is still used today to refer to a sumptuous or luxurious meal, particularly one that is served after a hunt or other entertaining activity. Interestingly, the word "repast" also has connections to the Old English word "restan," meaning "to rest," which highlights the notions of refreshment, relaxation, and enjoyment that are associated with a good meal. Although the usage of "repast" has declined somewhat in modern English, it is still a useful word for describing contemplative or leisurely meals, and it adds a sense of elegance and antiquity to formal or literary contexts. In short, the word "repast" is a fascinating example of linguistic evolution, showcasing the close ties between Old French and Middle English, and how words can be repurposed and adapted over time to suit the changing needs and values of a language community.

Vocabulary summary repast

typenoun

meaningmeal, party

meaningfood (at meal)

Example of vocabulary repastnamespace

  • After the wedding ceremony, the newlyweds enjoyed a lavish repast in the grand ballroom.
  • The family gathered around the dining table for a hearty repast, complete with roasted turkey, stuffing, and all the fixings.
  • The repast served in the historic castle's banquet hall was fit for a king, featuring an array of sumptuous dishes and fine wines.
  • In this quaint countryside inn, the traveler indulged in a simple yet satisfying repast of homemade soups, hearty stews, and freshly baked bread.
  • The repast offered at the fancy high-end restaurant left the guests astonished with the exquisite artistry and flavour profile of each dish.

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