luncheon

noun

lun·​cheon ˈlən-chən 

: lunch

especially : a formal usually midday meal as part of a meeting or for entertaining a guest

a company luncheon

a fund-raising luncheon

Examples of luncheon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The luncheon, silent auction and games were coordinated with the North San Diego Soroptimists club in May 2025, said Shanie Laflamme, public awareness chair for Soroptimist of Poway. —Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Mar. 2026

The Gracies’ national television, streaming, radio and digital media winners will be celebrated in a ceremony May 19 at the Beverly Wilshire, while local TV, radio and student winners will be recognized in a luncheon June 16 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York. —Patrick Hipes, Deadline, 23 Mar. 2026

The Gracie Awards Gala will take place May 19 in Los Angeles with local and student honorees being recognized at a luncheon on June 16 in New York City. —Marc Malkin, Variety, 23 Mar. 2026

Lord John’s time at that luncheon is eventful, as well. —Maggie Fremont, Vulture, 20 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

perhaps alteration of nuncheon light snack, alteration of Middle English nonshench midday refreshment, from non noon + schench drink

First Known Use

circa 1652, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing luncheon

• luncheon meat
• pre-luncheon

Rhymes for luncheon

• truncheon

Kids Definition

luncheon

noun

lun·​cheon ˈlən-chən 

: a light meal at midday

especially : a formal lunch