feast
UK[fiːst]US[fiːst]
n
a large or special meal, especially for a lot of people and to celebrate something
n
a religious festival, especially one celebrating a particular saint or event
v
to eat and drink a lot in a way that shows you are enjoying yourself
Etymology
the word 'feast' originates from the latin adjective 'festus', meaning "joyful, festive". this term evolved into the vulgar latin noun 'festa', signifying a day of celebration or a holiday, which was then adopted into old french as 'feste'. entering middle english around the 13th century, the spelling and pronunciation gradually shifted to 'feast', solidifying its association with celebratory meals and religious festivals. the core semantic thread from latin to modern english consistently revolves around joy, celebration, and communal enjoyment, linking the ancient concept of a festive day to the modern practices of elaborate dining and religious observance.
Analysis
the word 'feast' is a simplex word. it is derived from the old french 'feste', meaning "festival, celebration". the old french term itself comes from the latin 'festa', a noun use of the feminine of 'festus', meaning "joyous, festive".
Examples
the wedding feast was held in a grand hall with music and dancing.
christmas is a major feast in the christian calendar.
we feasted on lobster and champagne to celebrate the promotion.