Who knew there was more to these two words? While most of us use “dinner” and “supper” interchangeably to describe the final meal of the day, they aren’t exactly the same. In fact, the choice between the two terms might reveal something about your family history—especially if your grandparents preferred “supper.” Spoiler alert: They might have farming roots!
A Glimpse Into the Past
In the 18th and early 19th centuries, Americans followed a different mealtime tradition. “Dinner” referred to the largest meal of the day, typically eaten at noon to give farmers the energy needed for their physically demanding work. Evenings were reserved for a lighter meal, which came to be known as “supper.” According to food historian Helen Zoe Veit, this routine was practical for agricultural lifestyles. The term “supper” itself comes from the Old French word “souper,” meaning “evening meal.”
The Shift to Evening “Dinners”
As American society moved away from agriculture and into urban workplaces, the noontime feast faded. Returning home to prepare and eat a big midday meal simply wasn’t possible for most people. Over time, dinner shifted to the evening, becoming the main meal shared with family after a long workday. This cultural shift helped popularize the term “dinner” over “supper.”
Where “Supper” Still Lives On
Today, “supper” remains more common in Southern and Midwestern states. These regions have deep agricultural roots, and their traditions reflect that heritage. For many in these areas, “supper” is still a cherished term that links back to simpler, farm-centered days.
A Peek at Regional Language
Your choice of words can say a lot about where you’re from. Just as “supper” suggests ties to farming communities, other terms and phrases can reveal your regional identity. Curious to know more? Dive into the fun quirks of language to uncover what your vocabulary says about you!
The Bottom Line
Whether you call it “dinner” or “supper,” the meaning remains the same for most of us: good food and a chance to connect with loved ones. But next time you hear someone say “supper,” you’ll know they’re carrying on a tradition that stretches back generations. Who knew mealtime could be so fascinating?
This content has, in part, been generated with the aid of an artificial intelligence language model. While we strive for accuracy and quality, please note that the information provided may not be entirely error-free or up-to-date. We recommend independently verifying the content and consulting with professionals for specific advice or information. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the use or interpretation of this content.