English edit

Etymology edit

From love +‎ feast, partial calque of Latin agape and Koine Greek ἀγάπη (agápē).

Noun edit

love feast (plural love feasts)

  1. (Christianity, historical) A symbolic communal meal held by early Christians in commemoration of the eucharist. [from 16th c.]
    Synonym: agape
  2. (Christianity) A religious service held by Moravians, Methodists and some other group, in imitation of such gatherings, characterised by partaking in a simple meal. [from 17th c.]
    • 1789, Olaudah Equiano, chapter 10, in The Interesting Narrative, volume I:
      He then invited me to a love-feast at his chapel that evening.
  3. (figurative, now chiefly Canada, US) Any banquet or gathering to promote goodwill among the participants. [from 17th c.]

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