caterer

American  

[key-ter-er] / ˈkeɪ tər ər /

noun

1. one whose business is to provide food, supplies, and sometimes service at social gatherings.

2. one who caters.

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caterer British  

/ ˈkeɪtərə /

noun

1. a person who caters, esp one who as a profession provides food for large social events, etc

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Etymology

Origin of caterer

First recorded in 1585–95; cater + -er ¹

Example Sentences

The new venture is a partnership with cousin George and a professional caterer, with "all the family" helping out with the stall, the bar and chatting with customers.

From BBC • May 13, 2026

My doctor wants me on a plant-based diet, and Stephen Faust, who’s our caterer, always makes sure I have what I need.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 14, 2025

Normally what they do is they'll hire a caterer and hire a party planner, they'll come in and they'll fluff and puff your house and cook all the food, and I would just disappear.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2025

"Every caterer has had to take some money off the meal plate," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 10, 2024

“It was foolhardy of the caterer to think that scythes would leave anything in a state of order.”

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman