Explore the difference between supper and dinner, their historical and cultural nuances, and when to use each term correctly. Learn more with specific examples. Supper is the last meal of the day, either a main meal or a snack, eaten before going to bed. Learn how to use supper in different contexts and compare it with other meals in British and American English. Supper is a noun that means an evening meal, often the last meal of the day. It can also refer to a social event where supper is served, or a light meal eaten before bedtime. The word supper comes from Old French souper, meaning “evening meal.” In early farming days, people used soup or stew as supper after the main daytime dinner. Chefs let those pots simmer all day and served the meal late in the evening. Read Also: Difference Between Soda Water and Sparkling Water In parts of the U.S. Midwest and South, people use supper for their main evening meal. They gather at home and share simple dishes. Supper often offers just one or two items. In Britain, many ...