Bringing Together Lunch and Dinner: A Delightful Choicetimiter or Lunner?

While the traditional concept of meals is often defined by distinct times of the day, what do we call the meal that blends the elements of lunch and dinner? This culinary conundrum has given birth to terms such as Lunner or Dunch. Let's explore the evolution of these terms and how they fits into our daily dining rituals.

The Concept of Lunner or Dunch

A term like Lunner or Dunch describes a meal that typically occurs in the late afternoon or early evening, bridging the gap between traditional lunch and dinner. This meal can be more substantial than a regular lunch but is lighter than a full dinner. It often includes a variety of dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, soups, pasta, main courses, and desserts.

However, the precise definition of Lunner or Dunch can vary based on individual preferences and cultural norms. For some, it may serve as a replacement for both lunch and dinner, while for others, it simply combines elements of both without replacing either. Overall, Lunner or Dunch represents a flexible meal concept that is well-suited to the demands of modern life.

Alternative Terms: Lupper, Linner, or Supp Fast?

Not satisfied with the terms Lunner or Dunch, some may wonder if we could use alternatives such as Lupper, Linner, or Supp (a playful term for supp fast – supper fast). However, these terms are not widely recognized. Instead, Brunch serves as a precedent, filling a similar gap in the meal schedule.

While Brunch is firmly rooted in the midmorning and is not a replacement for either breakfast or dinner, it demonstrates that a melding of lunch and dinner elements is a viable and accepted concept. The existence of Brunch suggests that there is a normative space for meals that straddle the lunch and dinner times.

The Structure of Daily Meals

Examining the structure of daily meals reveals a clear hierarchy and timing. Traditional meals such as Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are well-defined and tend to follow a strict schedule:

Breakfast: The morning meal that breaks your overnight fast. This can be anything at any time, from a light toast to a hearty meal. Brunch: Usually enjoyed between 10 AM and lunchtime, typically for those who skipped breakfast in anticipation of a midday meal. Second Breakfast (for Hobbits): A break from the daily routine, often seen in literature and fantasy. Elevenses: A light snack around 11 AM to curb midmorning hunger pangs. Lunch: The midday meal, often associated with a lighter afternoon meal like a picnic or luncheon for the more leisurely types. Afternoon Tea: A light snack around 3 PM, often accompanied by scones and tea, enjoyed by the more refined tastes. Tea (Family Dinner): The meal served to children when they return from school, usually between 3 PM to 6 PM. High Tea: A more substantial meal in the late afternoon, around 5 PM on weekends. It features foods like cucumber sandwiches and cakes, served to fend off hunger until dinner. Dinner: The main evening meal, the last and sometimes most substantial of the day. Supper: A light meal served between 8 PM and midnight, often a quick snack or a sandwich to tide one over until breakfast the next day. Kebab: A midnight meal for the ravenous, often a handheld meal when the kitchen is open late.

As we navigate these various meal times, it’s clear that Tea can fit into the bill as a term for an evening meal that falls between Dinner and Supper. It’s a versatile term that can encompass a variety of evening delights, ranging from a light snack to a full meal.

Conclusion

While the term Lunner or Dunch might seem like a playful concept, it reflects a growing flexibility in meal times. As modern lifestyles demand more fluidity in meal schedules, these terms offer a way to describe the combination of lunch and dinner elements that occur in the late afternoon or early evening. Whether you embrace the term Tea as your evening meal or opt for a more adventurous blend, the flexibility of meal times allows for a customized dining experience that suits your schedule and preferences.