luncheon

Etymology

From earlier lunching, of uncertain origin. Possibly related to lunch, q.v. It is unclear which came first. Possibly influenced by nuncheon (“light snack taken in the afternoon”).

noun

1. A formal meal served in the middle of the day.
   Now that she had rested and had fed from the luncheon tray Mrs. Broome had just removed, she had reverted to her normal gaiety. She looked cool in a grey tailored cotton dress with a terracotta scarf and shoes and her hair a black silk helmet. 1963, Margery Allingham, chapter 2, in The China Governess
   Superintendent Chalmers: Well, Seymour, I made it — despite your directions. Principal Skinner: Ahhh, Superintendent Chalmers! Welcome! I hope you're prepared for an unforgettable luncheon. 1996, Writing staff, “22 Short Films About Springfield”, in The Simpsons, season 7, episode 21, spoken by Principal Skinner (Harry Shearer)
2. (dated) Any midday meal; lunch.
   Have you had luncheon? 1931, Mildred Wirt (as Carolyn Keene), The Mystery at Lilac Inn (page 4)
3. (obsolete) A lump of food.
4. (obsolete) A portion of food taken at any time except at a regular meal; an informal or light repast.

verb

1. (intransitive, dated) To eat luncheon.
   In the meantime, while ladies are luncheoning on chicken pie, or coursing in whirling britskas, performing all the singular ceremonies of a London morning in the heart of the season[…] 1844, Benjamin Disraeli, Coningsby