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

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

"Our annual holiday," "Stocktaking day," "Our annual beanfeast," "Closed for repairs."

From The Grandchildren of the Ghetto by Zangwill, Israel

I turn and see a number of men sitting inside and looking almost as cheerful as a beanfeast in Epping Forest.

From War and the future: Italy, France and Britain at war by Wells, H. G. (Herbert George)

Who were those awful persons, who occupied more of the train than a bricklayer's beanfeast, and yet were more fastidious and delicate than the King's own suite?

From Tremendous Trifles by Chesterton, G. K. (Gilbert Keith)

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

From In Brief Authority by Anstey, F.