side dish

noun

: a food served separately along with the main course

Examples of side dish in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Keep jars of all-natural, vegan pesto and tapenade on hand to toss with steamed frozen veggies for a quick, easy side dish. Cynthia Sass, Health, 15 Jan. 2026 This recipe works as an easy weekday lunch or a simple side dish to any meal. Amanda Favazza, Southern Living, 15 Jan. 2026 Warm Barley and Caramelized Mushroom Salad Rather than lettuce or greens, this recipe uses barley as a base for an extra-hearty meal or side dish. Andrea Beck, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Jan. 2026 For three years now, the farm has served their Nigerian Pygmy goats donated Christmas trees; free of ornaments, tinsel, and any other side dish, of course. Noel Brennan, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for side dish

Word History

First Known Use

1702, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of side dish was in 1702

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Cite this Entry

“Side dish.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/side%20dish. Accessed 22 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

side dish

noun
: food served separately along with the main course
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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