sundae

noun

sun·​dae ˈsən-(ˌ)dā  -dē 

plural sundaes

: a dish consisting of ice cream served with toppings (such as crushed fruit, syrup, nuts, or whipped cream)

… at about 700 locations, the company is testing "dessert stations" behind the counter where employees can make sundaes topped with cake or brownie chunks.

—Candice Choi

According to the legend, the ice-cream sundae was first concocted in 1881 at a soda fountain at 1404 15th Street, Two Rivers. The addition of chocolate increased its cost, and to limit the demand, it was sold on Sunday only.

—David Woodward

On the sweet side, area eateries have plenty of tempting treats to help you keep your cool—like the "Unicorn Junior," a tasty, quirky take on the traditional ice cream sundae made with cotton candy ice cream, marshmallow sauce and a magical scoop of Lucky Charms.

—Kathy Bossa

Examples of sundae in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Yemeni cafe two blocks from home made the best ice cream sundae. — Danielle Paquette, Washington Post, 7 Nov. 2026

Travelers can also look forward to freshening up with amenity kits packed with Grown Alchemist products, and ice cream sundae service at the end of the main meal. — Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 30 Oct. 2026

Red Robin Families dining in at Red Robin can receive a free sundae for each kid in costume under 11, as part of the purchase of kid’s meals. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 28 Oct. 2026

Weigh in as your waiter customizes your hummus, or select the add-ons as your sundae gets made. — Lisa Shames, Chicago Tribune, 22 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of Sunday

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing sundae

• hot fudge sundae

Kids Definition

sundae

noun

sun·​dae ˈsən-dē 

: a serving of ice cream topped with fruit, syrup, or nuts