luncheon

noun

lun·​cheon ˈlən-chən How to pronounce luncheon (audio)
: 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
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.
The annual champagne reception, gourmet luncheon, live and silent auction, and fashion show event raises funds to support United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of San Diego. Rancho Santa Fe Review, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Oct. 2025 The private luncheon brought together leaders who’ve built empires, broken ceilings, and redefined what success looks like on their own terms. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 13 Oct. 2025 The scholarship debuted during homecoming weekend, with an accompanying performance by Smith at a fundraising luncheon with the music school’s rock band and later at the halftime show of the Gophers football game against the Purdue Boilermakers. Sophia Arndt, Twin Cities, 13 Oct. 2025 Industry leaders were treated to a barbecue at the stables of Percy Warner Steeplechase Course, a dinner at Belle Meade Country Club and a Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Stuart Dyos, Nashville Tennessean, 12 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for luncheon

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of luncheon was circa 1652

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Cite this Entry

“Luncheon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/luncheon. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

luncheon

noun
lun·​cheon ˈlən-chən How to pronounce luncheon (audio)
: a light meal at midday
especially : a formal lunch

More from Merriam-Webster on luncheon

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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