noun
collation
A small, light meal.
After the service, guests enjoy a light collation in the hall.
Etymology
Latin collatio could mean a conference. The light-meal sense developed around monastic readings from the Collationes, spiritual conferences associated with a time when refreshments were taken.
More examples
- The hosts offer a collation of fruit, cheese, and bread.
- A simple collation keeps us going until dinner.
- We serve cold collations during the afternoon workshop.
Forms
collation · collations
Similar words
- snack
- More everyday; often eaten casually rather than served as a meal.
- refreshments
- Light food and drinks, often provided at gatherings.