goûter

Goûter is a French term referring to a light, late-afternoon meal eaten after the school day and before the evening meal. It is a common practice in France and widely observed in francophone regions such as Belgium, parts of Switzerland, and Canada. The content of a goûter varies with age, season, and family, but it typically includes bread or pastry, fruit or yogurt, and a drink such as milk, juice, or hot chocolate; some households also include a small sweet item. In schools, especially for younger children, a goûter may be provided or shared after classes, fitting the daily rhythm before dinner.

Etymology and usage: As a noun, goûter designates the snack itself; as a verb, goûter means “to taste” or “to sample.” The noun derives from the verb and the related noun goût, meaning “taste.” The practice has a long-standing cultural presence in France, where it is viewed as a regular nourishment moment and social ritual rather than a heavy meal.

Timing and context: The typical time for a goûter is around 4:00 to 5:00 pm, though this varies by household. The concept is distinct from the later dîner or from a pre-dinner apéritif. In other francophone countries, similar post-school snacks exist with local foods and customs.