diner

American  

[dahy-ner] / ˈdaɪ nər /

noun

1. a person who dines.

2. a railroad dining car.

3. a restaurant built like such a car.

4. a small, informal, and usually inexpensive restaurant.

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diner British  

/ ˈdaɪnə /

noun

1. a person eating a meal, esp in a restaurant

2. a small restaurant, often at the roadside

3. a fashionable bar, or a section of one, where food is served

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Etymology

Origin of diner

First recorded in 1800–10; dine + -er ¹

Example Sentences

In a separate study, simply changing the order of healthier, more environmentally friendly meals on a weekly menu led more diners to choose them.

From Science Daily

Chipotle has tried to ride the broader wellness trend with a new high-protein menu, and analysts have said limited-time menu items could retain diners’ interest.

From MarketWatch

But at noon on a Wednesday, tables were open and diners were ushered right in.

From Salon

Ultimately, if a bigger sandwich gets customers in the door — and those diners complement their purchase with a side of fries and a beverage — then it all works out to a restaurant’s advantage, he said.

From MarketWatch

Chains are hoping protein can help lure more diners.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• bistro
• booth
• coffee shop
• saloon