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

In addition to hype surrounding the pie itself, shoppers are sharing their love for mashing a piece of the pumpkin pie in a cup of Costco soft serve ice cream (available in the food court) to make a do-it-yourself sundae. —Greta Cross, USA Today, 24 Oct. 2025

The home of the Whopper gave classic menu items (Whopper, chicken nuggets, mozzarella fries and ice cream sundae) a Halloween makeover to get customers in the spirit. —Sabrina Weiss, PEOPLE, 23 Oct. 2025

The sundae is made with vanilla ice cream, salted caramel sauce, and brownie bites, per the sign. —Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 7 Oct. 2025

Bring a friend, but don’t expect to share the ice-cream sundae, topped with meringue and fresh fruit. —Air Mail, 4 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

probably alteration of Sunday

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing sundae

• hot fudge sundae
• ice cream sundae

Kids Definition

sundae

noun

sun·​dae ˈsən-dē 

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