Picnic Meaning and Definition
Picnic
Pronunciation
/pɪkˈnɪk/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A pleasure outing, typically in the open air, often with social occasions, food, and drinks.
Etymology
The word “picnic” comes from the Old French word “piqueniq,” meaning “to pick” or “to peck,” and the English suffix “-nic,” which forms nouns. The term emerged in the late 18th century and was initially used to describe a meal eaten outdoors, often in the countryside.
Usage Notes
Picnics are often planned and organized events, and the term is commonly used in informal settings, such as social gatherings, family outings, and romantic dates.
Cultural References
Picnics have appeared in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. Examples include Virginia Woolf’s novel “Mrs. Dalloway,” which features a memorable picnic scene, and the iconic song “Picnic in the Summertime” by The Muppets.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Picnic and hang
- Picnic bench
Related Words or Phrases
- Rendezvous
- Gathering
- Outing
Collocations
- Picnic basket
- Picnic blanket
- Picnic table
Frequency of Use
Picnic is a popular term in modern language, frequently used in informal settings and casual conversations.
Common Misspellings
- Pickenic
- Piknik
- Picens