caterer

American  

[key-ter-er] / ˈkeɪ tər ər /

noun

1. one whose business is to provide food, supplies, and sometimes service at social gatherings.

2. one who caters.

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caterer British  

/ ˈkeɪtərə /

noun

1. a person who caters, esp one who as a profession provides food for large social events, etc

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Etymology

Origin of caterer

First recorded in 1585–95; cater + -er ¹

Example Sentences

It’s just days before the wedding, and as the caterer gently pleads, a “yes” has to be absolutely final this time around.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

The Charlotte Russe is a specialty of my mother, a former caterer who helped run New York’s Hard Rock Café in the ’70s.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 19, 2026

"Every caterer has had to take some money off the meal plate," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 10, 2024

At various points, Garvey allegedly owed money to his gardener, his mirror installer, a caterer, local grocery stores, and his church.

From Slate • May 29, 2024

He says he is not sensitive to class distinctions, but he admits he was bothered when some people mistook him for the caterer at fund-raising dinners for the local Greek church he helped build.

From "Class Matters" by The New York Times