potluck

noun

pot·​luck ˈpät-ˈlək 

 sense 1b also  -ˌlək

1

a

: the regular meal available to a guest for whom no special preparations have been made

b

: a communal meal to which people bring food to share

—usually used attributively

a potluck supper

2

: whatever is offered or available in given circumstances or at a given time

Examples of potluck in a Sentence

He organized a neighborhood potluck for next Saturday.

Recent Examples on the Web

From backyard barbecues to church potlucks, you're bound to find Grandma carrying this treat into the party. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 12 Feb. 2025

Since its founding, THRIVE SS has grown from 45 men in Atlanta, Georgia, to over 3,500 men throughout U.S. The organization's programs are include social events, such as BYOB brunches and potlucks, workshops for men over 50, and support groups for young black men. —Melissa Bronstein, Verywell Health, 12 Feb. 2025

The day concludes with the annual potluck and silent auction at Church of St. Philip. —Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

On Super Sunday, this neighborhood favorite with a dozen screens will host a potluck with drink specials. —Linda Zavoral, The Mercury News, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1592, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

potluck

noun

pot·​luck ˈpät-ˈlək 

1

a

: a regular meal for which no special preparations have been made

b

: a meal to which people bring food to share

2

: whatever is offered or available in given circumstances or at a given time