Definition

Noun: A large, elaborately decorated cake, traditionally consisting of multiple stacked tiers, that is served at a wedding reception to celebrate the marriage.

Usage

The term "wedding cake" refers specifically to the ceremonial cake served at a wedding. It is a central part of the reception festivities, often used in rituals like the couple cutting the first slice together.

Examples

• The couple chose a beautiful three-tier wedding cake with vanilla frosting.
• Cutting the wedding cake is a classic photo opportunity for the newlyweds.
• The bakery specializes in designing custom wedding cakes.

Advanced Usage

• "to have one's wedding cake and eat it too": A playful, less common variant of the idiom "have one's cake and eat it too," implying a desire for two incompatible benefits, sometimes used in the context of wedding planning dilemmas.
  • They want a huge guest list and an intimate budget—they're trying to have their wedding cake and eat it too.

Variants and Related Words

• Cake (n): A sweet baked dessert. A wedding cake is a specific type of cake for a specific occasion.
• Tiered cake (n): A cake with multiple layers stacked on top of each other, which is the common structure for a wedding cake.
• Groom's cake (n): A separate cake, often served alongside the main wedding cake, sometimes reflecting the groom's interests.

Synonyms

• Nuptial cake: A formal synonym, though less commonly used in everyday English.
• Bridal cake: An older or more traditional term for a wedding cake.

Related Phrases

• To cut the cake: The ceremonial act performed by the couple at the reception.
  • It's time for the bride and groom to cut the cake.
• Cake topper (n): A decorative figurine or ornament placed on the top tier of the wedding cake.
  • Their cake topper was a miniature version of them with their dog.

Noun

1. a rich cake with two or more tiers and covered with frosting and decorations; served at a wedding reception