Noun
/groʊnɪŋ bɔrd/
The term "groaning board" refers to a large table or banquet spread abundant with an array of food, typically suggesting a feast or lavish meal. It evokes the imagery of a table so full of dishes that it "groans" under the weight. This phrase is primarily used in written contexts and historical literature, although it can occasionally appear in conversational settings when discussing large meals or feasts.
"Groaning board" is not commonly used in everyday language today but can be found in literature, particularly in descriptions of traditional or festive meals. It carries a somewhat archaic or formal connotation.
The family gathered around the groaning board, eager to taste the delicious dishes prepared for the holiday feast.
Семья собралась вокруг стола, покрытого яствами, с нетерпением ожидая попробовать вкусные блюда, приготовленные к праздничному ужину.
At the wedding reception, the groaning board displayed all kinds of delicacies, from roasted meats to exquisite desserts.
На свадебном приеме стол был заставлен всевозможными деликатесами, от запеченного мяса до изысканных десертов.
The quaint inn was famous for its groaning board, where travelers enjoyed hearty meals after long journeys.
Уютная гостиница славилась своим столом, покрытым яствами, где путешественники наслаждались плотными блюдами после долгих путешествий.
The phrase "groaning board" itself is somewhat idiomatic, but related expressions often involve feasts or abundance of food.
To feast like a king
After the long hike, we feasted like kings on the groaning board prepared for us by the local villagers.
После долгого похода мы поели, как короли, насладившись яствами, подготовленными местными жителями.
Feast your eyes on
As they entered the banquet hall, they could feast their eyes on the groaning board that awaited them.
Когда они вошли в банкетный зал, они могли любоваться столом, покрытым яствами, который ждал их.
A banquet fit for a king
The charity gala provided a groaning board that was a banquet fit for a king.
Гала-ужин на благотворительность предложил стол, полный яств, достойный короля.
Bite off more than you can chew
During the holiday feast, it’s easy to bite off more than you can chew when faced with a groaning board.
Во время праздничного ужина легко взять больше, чем можешь съесть, когда перед тобой стол, покрытый яствами.
The phrase "groaning board" likely originated from the imagery of a table burdened by the weight of food, producing a "groaning" sound. The use of "board" in this context refers to a flat surface or table, which has historical roots in Old English. The term evokes a sense of abundance, common in large gatherings and feasts in various cultures.
Synonyms: - Banquet table - Feast - Buffet
Antonyms: - Sparse meal - Minimalist dining - Meager fare