beanfeast

American  

[been-feest] / ˈbinˌfist /

Also beanfest

noun

Chiefly British Slang.

1. (formerly) an annual dinner or party given by an employer for employees.

2. a celebration or festive occasion, especially when a meal is provided.

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beanfeast British  

/ ˈbiːnˌfiːst /

noun

1. an annual dinner given by employers to employees

2. any festive or merry occasion

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Etymology

Origin of beanfeast

First recorded in 1795–1805; bean + feast

Explanation

You might be surprised to learn that all kinds of food can be served at a beanfeast, which is a celebratory dinner party thrown by employers for their employees. The word beanfeast dates back to the 19th century in Britain, originating from festive gatherings hosted by employers for their workers. Traditionally, a piece of cake with a hidden bean would crown the "king" of the party. Today, it can refer to any special, celebratory dinner. For example, you might say, "The neighborhood block party was a true beanfeast, with barbecue, games, and music bringing everyone together."

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

beanfeast

Britons, however, were not disturbed by the slackening of "the foreign invasion," liked to think of the Coronation as an exclusively British beanfeast.

From Time Magazine Archive

"Look too much as if we were out for a beanfeast, my boy," objected his father.

From In Brief Authority by Anstey, F.

On this particular occasion, however, the foreman had received an invitation to a beanfeast at Epping.

From Bindle Some Chapters in the Life of Joseph Bindle by Jenkins, Herbert George

Jenny remembered how her mother had teased her father when she saw him supporting a banner of the Order of Foresters on the occasion of a beanfeast at Clacton.

From Carnival by MacKenzie, Compton

But if we are to spot wot goes quisby, and be the responsible chaps, Wheugh! we should 'ave a regular beanfeast with sockets and air-pipes and traps!

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 101, October 10, 1891 by Various