noun
cafe
A small place serving drinks and light meals.
The small cafe serves coffee and sandwiches beside the station.
Etymology
The French word names coffee and the place where it is served. English adopted the establishment sense, extending naturally to places offering light meals as well as drinks.
More examples
- We met at a quiet cafe after work.
- Several sidewalk cafes stayed open late.
- She ordered tea and toast at the corner cafe.
Forms
cafe · cafes · café · cafés
Similar words
- restaurant
- Usually offers a broader range of meals, while a cafe often emphasizes drinks and light food.