course
KORS
/kɔːrs/
A specific stage or distinct part of a meal served at one time.
Multi-course meals follow a structured sequence—appetizer, soup, main dish, dessert—staggered across time.
The story behind the word. Traces to Latin 'currere' (to run). In medieval banquets, dishes were carried in sequential 'runs' or 'courses' from distant kitchens, shifting the word from the act of running to the stages of food served.
Word relationships
- stage: 'Stage' is generic step progression, while 'course' specifically denotes a dinner segment.
- serving: 'Serving' refers to a portion of food, whereas 'course' refers to a timed meal section.
- snack: A quick bite eaten without structured multi-stage dining.
Commonly confused with
- coarse: 'Coarse' means rough in texture or vulgar; 'course' refers to a meal section or track.
Word family
- coursing (noun): Running or chasing in sequence.
Collocations
- main course
- three-course meal
- first course
- dessert course
Idioms & expressions
- in due course
Example sentences
- "The main course featured roasted lamb accompanied by seasonal spring vegetables." Fine dining
- "Between each course, diners refreshed their palates with a light lemon sorbet." Pacing service
Memory hook
A meal's COURSE runs in steps from start to finish. A section of a structured meal.
When not to use
Do not confuse with an academic class or golf course, though all share the historical sense of a track.
Fun facts
- Elaborate French banquets in the 17th century could feature up to eight distinct courses served over several hours.
Related words
Also appears in
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