fete
fete Lexical Profile
fete Game Scores & Validity
• noun
British An outdoor community gathering or fair featuring stalls, games, and refreshments, typically organized to raise funds for a church, school, or charity.
"Every July, the local parish organizes a traditional village fete on the church green."
A large, elaborate celebration, festival, or entertainment held to honor a person or special occasion.
"The museum hosted an extravagant summer fete to celebrate the opening of its new wing."
• verb
To honor, celebrate, or entertain someone lavishly and publicly.
"The visiting laureate was feted by university faculty at a formal banquet."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'fete' (a celebration or to honor lavishly) with its homophones 'fate' (destiny) and 'feat' (an impressive achievement).
• Rhymes for fete
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the 18th century from French 'fête', from Old French 'feste', which comes from Latin 'festa' (holidays or feasts), the substantivized neuter plural of 'festus' (joyous or festive).