fast food

¹ American  

noun

1. food, as hamburgers, pizza, or fried chicken, that is prepared in quantity by a standardized method and can be dispensed quickly at inexpensive restaurants for eating there or elsewhere.

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fast-food ² American  

[fast-food, fahst-] / ˈfæstˈfud, ˈfɑst- /

adjective

1. of or specializing in fast food.

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fast food British  

noun

1. food that requires little preparation before being served

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adjective

1. (of a restaurant, café, etc) serving such food

Usage

​What does fast food mean?​ Fast food is food quickly prepared and served, often at chain restaurants and typically associated with less expensive and less nutritious items like hamburgers, french fries, and soft drinks.

Etymology

Origin of fast food¹

An Americanism dating back to 1965–70

Origin of fast-food²

An Americanism dating back to 1965–70

Example Sentences

When McDonald’s launched its “McValue” menu last year, analysts said it reflected weaker demand for fast food.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 20, 2026

As there aren't many restaurants in the area, he believes this is part of the reason some choose to have fast food instead.

From BBC • Apr. 18, 2026

The two are so hyperfixated on the idea of sliders, fries and a couple of soft drinks that they’ll stop at nothing to get their hands on the perfect fast food.

From Salon • Apr. 18, 2026

The beloved burger chain, whose long lines often wrap around the block, has stood out against fast food competitors in its resistance to automated ordering.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

People just liked Hassan, the way people like fast food and celebrities.

From "An Abundance of Katherines" by John Green