A meal usually taken during the light hours of noon, which originated from the term “lump” and harks back to an era where a chunk or portion of bread, cheese, or similar items were consumed as a snack between breakfast and dinner. The word “lunch,” an abbreviated version of the original term, is often employed to describe this meal.
The midday repast, commonly referred to as lunch, exhibits such a wide range of characteristics, depending on personal preferences and circumstances, that it defies a definitive description. The term encompasses a vast spectrum, spanning from a simple sandwich enjoyed by office and factory workers to an intricately prepared and formal affair that accompanies public functions or private gatherings. The nuances and variations within this meal make it a versatile and adaptable culinary experience.