main course

American  

noun

1. Nautical. a square mainsail.

2. the principal dish or course of a meal, typically including meat or fish.

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main course British  

noun

1. the principal dish of a meal

2. nautical a square mainsail

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Etymology

Origin of main course

First recorded in 1505–15

Example Sentences

“Unless that meat’s the appetizer, and we’re the main course,” said George.

From Literature

He made a grand gesture with his arms, as if presenting the main course of a decadent meal.

From Literature

Many guests bristle when they can’t be seated as incomplete parties, or order appetizers without putting in their main course order.

From The Wall Street Journal

Now, thanks to inflation and stubbornly high grocery bills, they’re more often getting promoted—sometimes to the main course.

From The Wall Street Journal

The ground has just served Woo up to me like a main course on a platter of sand and diamond.

From Literature