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.

---

caterer British  

/ ˈkeɪtərə /

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of caterer

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

Example Sentences

It’s just days before the wedding, and as the caterer gently pleads, a “yes” has to be absolutely final this time around.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

The Charlotte Russe is a specialty of my mother, a former caterer who helped run New York’s Hard Rock Café in the ’70s.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

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

From BBC • Dec. 10, 2024

“Honestly, no-one here gives a damn,” said a local caterer, Evan Tuvignon, leaning on his shop counter and suggesting that people were fed up with the whole case.

From BBC • Sep. 10, 2024

A caterer would be circulating with appetizers on silver trays while Dad hid in the kitchen to avoid socializing.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller