cater
UK: ˈkeɪtə | US: ˈkeɪtər
vi. to provide food and service, especially for social events
vt. to supply what is desired or needed (often + to/for)
cater = cat<buy> + er<agent suffix>
- cat derives from Old French acater (to buy), from Vulgar Latin accaptare (to acquire).
- er is an English agent suffix indicating "one who does something."
Etymology Origin:
The word cater originated in the 14th century from the Anglo-French term catour (provisioner), linked to the verb acater (to buy). Over time, it shifted from general purchasing to specializing in food provision for events. The suffix -er solidified its role as "one who supplies." The modern sense of "providing for specific needs" (e.g., cater to a demand) emerged later.
The restaurant caters weddings and corporate events.
The magazine caters to young professionals.
They hired a chef to cater the party.
Streaming platforms cater to diverse tastes.
The program caters for children with special needs.