potluck

American  

[pot-luhk, -luhk] / ˈpɒtˌlʌk, -ˈlʌk /

noun

1. food or a meal that happens to be available without special preparation or purchase.

   to take potluck with a friend.

2. Also called potluck dinner,.  Also called potluck lunch.  Also called potluck supper,.  a meal, especially for a large group, to which participants bring various foods to be shared.

3. whatever is available or comes one's way.

   With fluctuating interest rates, homebuyers are learning to take potluck with the banks.

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potluck Idioms  

1. see take potluck.

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Etymology

Origin of potluck

First recorded in 1585–95; pot ¹ + luck

Example Sentences

“There’s a strong history in the union movement and we have potluck dinners where everyone brings a hot dish.”

From The Wall Street Journal

A monthly potluck with a single shared theme.

From Salon

The holidays represent an especially anxiety-ridden time for introverted employees—what with office parties, potlucks and other gatherings.

From The Wall Street Journal

Each Friday, friends drove to Munger’s home for a potluck lunch, carrying chicken sandwiches with butter on soft white bread, the crusts sometimes removed.

From The Wall Street Journal

If you hate the thought of being alone, it’s not too late to invite a few people over for a casual potluck or after-party.

From Salon

Related Words

• breakfast
• brunch
• dessert
• dinner
• fare
• feast
• lunch
• luncheon
• picnic
• refreshment
• snack
• supper
• table
• tea