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

There will be a build-your-own ice cream sundae reception with the cast after the show. — Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 July 2026

The sweet buns with vanilla custard are a particular speciality, and the ice cream sundae has been a local staple for 80 years. — Jaymi McCann, TheWeek, 21 July 2026

Tristan tried a waffle cone stuffed with Buckeye (peanut butter base, chocolate swirls, mini peanut butter cups) plus a brownie sundae big enough to split. — Melissa Oyler, Charlotte Observer, 18 July 2026

Wait 30 minutes in line to try the new strawberry pretzel salad sundae from the cool new dessert spot in Birmingham? — Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 15 July 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