picnic

pic-nic · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An outdoor meal, typically eaten in a scenic location such as a park, beach, or countryside.

  2. 2.

    (informal) An easy or pleasant task or experience.

Forms

plural: picnics

Phrases & expressions

  • no picnic — something difficult or unpleasant
  • picnic basket — a container for carrying food to a picnic
  • picnic table — an outdoor table with attached benches

Related words

Antonyms: indoor meal
See also: barbecue, lunch, outing
Synonyms: excursion, outing

Etymology

From French pique-nique ("a social gathering where each guest contributes food"), of uncertain origin. First appeared in English in the mid-18th century.