MUNDANE MYSTERIES: Why is it called “dessert”?

Piece of Chocolate Cake on white plate on wooden background, closeup. Homemade chocolate cake.

MUNDANE MYSTERIES: Why is it called “dessert”?

We’ve all enjoyed a delicious dessert in our lives. But where does the word actually come from?

Dessert actually derives from the French term desservir which means “to clear the table”. The term was first used in 1539 and was referring to delicate fruits and nuts which were served to guests at dinner parties back then after the grand main meal was over. Once the “table was cleared”.

 

Photo credit: Getty Images