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

The dinner’s main course — prime beef and Maine lobster — had not been served.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 2026

Her Swiss chard and okra stew makes a delicious main course served over polenta, while her coconut fish curry evokes the country’s long coast.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

The five-time major champion goes back to his roots with Irish champ as a main course side dish to accompany either wagyu filet mignon or seared salmon.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

Coup de Tête, a restaurant there, has prix fixe meals including a starter and a main course or a main course and a dessert that set you back a mere €19.50.

From Barron's • Mar. 8, 2026

What happened was simply this: at 8:23 and five seconds, the main course of the evening was ready for serving.

From "The Princess Bride" by William Goldman