prix-fixe
UK[ˌpriː ˈfiːks]US[ˌpriː ˈfiːks]
adj
(of a meal) offered at a fixed total price, with no additional charges for individual courses.
n
a meal offered at a fixed total price.
Etymology
The term 'prix fixe' is a direct borrowing from French, entering English in the late 19th century as fine dining became more internationally influenced. Literally meaning "fixed price," it was adopted to describe a complete meal offered for a single, set cost, contrasting with the 'à la carte' (by the menu) model where each item is priced separately. The phrase leverages the prestige of French culinary tradition to denote a formal, multi-course dining experience. Its logic is purely descriptive, combining the concepts of a stated 'price' with the condition of being 'fixed' or non-negotiable.
Analysis
This is a loan phrase from French. It is not segmented into morphemes within the English spelling system. The phrase is composed of two French words: 'prix' (price) from Latin 'pretium', and 'fixe' (fixed) from Latin 'fixus', the past participle of 'figere' (to fasten).
Examples
The restaurant offers a three-course prix-fixe menu for dinner.
We chose the prix-fixe option, which included an appetizer, main course, and dessert.
Many high-end establishments feature a seasonal prix-fixe.