Definition

Noun: A smaller, separate dish of food that accompanies and complements a main course in a meal. It is not the primary focus of the meal but is ordered and served alongside it.

Usage

A "side order" is typically selected from a specific section of a restaurant menu. It is an optional addition to the main dish. - Would you like a side order with your steak? - The burger comes with fries, or you can choose a different side order.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "On the side": This common phrase is often used interchangeably with "side order" when requesting an accompaniment. It emphasizes that the item is separate.
  • I'd like the dressing on the side, please. (Here, "on the side" functions similarly to specifying a side order of dressing.)

Variants and Related Words

• Side dish (n): A more general synonym for "side order." While a "side order" implies something you specifically request, a "side dish" can also refer to an accompaniment that is automatically included with a meal.
  • The roast dinner includes three side dishes.

Synonyms

• Accompaniment
• Side dish

Related Phrases

• To order something on the side: To request an item as a separate accompaniment.
  • He ordered a salad on the side.

Noun

1. a dish that is served with, but is subordinate to, a main course