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Synonyms

food court

American  

noun

  1. a space, as in a shopping mall, with a concentration of fast-food stalls and usually a common eating area.


Etymology

Origin of food court

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Our clique comes storming down the mall food court in that classic slow-motion strut, letting us know right away what we’re in for.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

At Plaza Mexico, where a framed picture of the Virgin of Guadalupe looks over the food court, customers filled about half the tables during lunchtime recently.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026

In the food court, two freshmen debated whether the university had overreacted with the new police patrols and K-9 unit.

From Slate • Oct. 30, 2025

The trio headed to the food court before going to HMV where they were "locked in for games and competitions" with Bob Geldof who had opened the store.

From BBC • Sep. 10, 2025

Imani’s mom will be there with us, but she’ll just sit in the food court with baby Kendi.

From "Blended" by Sharon M. Draper

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