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

An even spread of Sunday-luncheon locals, American tourists, skilled golfers, families, and returning couples curious to see what's changed and what hasn't. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Jan. 2026

Leerhsen’s speech at a City Club of Chicago luncheon comes at a critical juncture for the CTA. —Talia Soglin, Chicago Tribune, 22 Jan. 2026

This year’s luncheon will feature a powerful lineup of speakers whose personal experiences and professional leadership reflect the many dimensions of breast cancer impact from survivorship and advocacy to innovation in care and research. —Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Jan. 2026

Equally iconic were its galas and benefit luncheons— events as memorable as the department store itself. —Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 16 Jan. 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