SKIP TO CONTENT

deli

/ˈdɛli/

/ˈdɛli/

Other forms: delis

A deli is a market where you can buy prepared food or shop for staples including meat and cheese. You might have a favorite neighborhood deli where you go every morning for a bagel and coffee.

The word deli is a shortened form, or common nickname, of delicatessen, an American English version of the German delikatessen, the plural of delikatesse, "delicacy," or "fine food." Many delis specialize in the food of a certain region, country, or ethnicity — like a Jewish deli, a German deli, or a Greek deli. You can usually buy sandwiches, salads, drinks, and specialty foods at delis.

Definitions of deli
  1. noun
    a shop selling ready-to-eat food products
    synonyms: delicatessen, food shop
    see moresee less
    types:
    charcuterie
    a delicatessen that specializes in meats
    type of:
    shop, store
    a mercantile establishment for the retail sale of goods or services
Pronunciation
US

/ˈdɛli/

UK

/ˈdɛli/

Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘deli'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family
EDITOR'S CHOICE

Look up deli for the last time

Close your vocabulary gaps with personalized learning that focuses on teaching the words you need to know.

VocabTrainer - Vocabulary.com's Vocabulary Trainer