buffet

word

/ˈbəfət/, /bəˈfeɪ/
BYOO-fay, byoo-FAY
/ˈbʊfɪt/, /bʊˈfeɪ/
BUUF-it, buu-FAY

Definition

A buffet is a meal where people serve themselves from a variety of dishes arranged on a table. It can also refer to the table or counter where the food is placed.

Usage & Nuances

Usually informal or used in restaurants and parties; collocations: 'all-you-can-eat buffet', 'breakfast buffet'. Not to be confused with the verb 'buffet' meaning to hit repeatedly, which is rare in everyday English.

Example Sentences

The buffet had many types of desserts.

basic

You can choose whatever you like at the buffet.

basic

The kids went straight to the dessert table at the buffet.

natural

Let's meet for Sunday brunch at the hotel buffet.

natural

Have you ever tried an all-you-can-eat buffet?

natural

We had lunch at the hotel buffet.

basic