cafeteria-style

adjective

caf·​e·​te·​ria-style ˌka-fə-ˈtir-ē-ə-ˌstī(-ə)l How to pronounce cafeteria-style (audio)
: cafeteria
cafeteria-style benefits

Examples of cafeteria-style in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tucked in the back of the store lies a row of tables and an old-school cafeteria-style counter. — Natalie Hoy, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026 Nebu, the cafeteria-style eatery, is open for breakfast and lunch every weekday. — Janae Williams, Oklahoman, 3 Feb. 2026 Dinner is served by volunteers, cafeteria-style, and guests eat the meal out on the patio. — Linda McIntosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Jan. 2026 Southern comfort food in a cafeteria-style setting. — Ella Gonzales may 28, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for cafeteria-style

Word History

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cafeteria-style was in 1906

Rhymes for cafeteria-style

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Browse Nearby Words

cafeteria car
cafeteria-style
cafetorium
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Cite this Entry

“Cafeteria-style.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cafeteria-style. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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