The Evolution and Terminology of Linner: Understanding the Midday Meal

As the days blend into each other, so do our eating habits. The concept of a 'liner'—a meal that bridges lunch and dinner—has gained some traction as people joke about it. But where does this term come from, and how did we end up with such a diverse range of meal names?

What is a Liner?

A liner is often a meal that is served in the late afternoon or early evening, combining elements of both lunch and dinner. It's essentially the brunch version of two meals at the end of the day, but it's less commonly used and more of a joke term. While it hasn't quite taken off as a regular part of the dining lexicon, it does represent a fascinating shift in how we structure our meals around the day.

The Origins of Lunch and Dinner

The terms 'lunch' and 'dinner' have deep roots in agricultural and industrial history. Traditionally, a midday meal around noon was called 'lunch,' while the evening meal was referred to as 'dinner.' This division was quite clear and well-established, influenced by the routines of planting, harvesting, and the eventual shift to industrial work schedules.

For farmers, the day began with a hearty breakfast followed by a substantial lunch to fuel them through the work. This was typically a larger meal than breakfast but not as heavy as the evening meal, which often consisted of leftovers or a feast after a long day of labor. Farmers might then have a lighter supper in the evening, which was distinct from the main dinner meal.

Transition to Office Life

As society shifted to office-based work, the dynamics of meal timing also began to change. With office jobs requiring people to be present in the morning and working through the day, the midday meal took on a new form. Many workers packed a lunch to carry with them, leading to the development of the boxed lunch or the midday sandwich.

The evening meal, now often seen as the main meal of the day, shifted to an after-work schedule. This transitional period could sometimes result in a heavier or more substantial meal, influenced by the lack of a designated lunch break. As a result, dinner became the primary meal for most people, typically served in the late afternoon or early evening.

The Rise of Brunch and the Concept of Liner

Brunch, a melding of breakfast and lunch, emerged as a social phenomenon, particularly on weekends. This meal broke the traditional rules of when meals were served, combining the more leisurely pace of a breakfast meal with the longer hours typically associated with lunch. It became a social event, a way to gather with friends and family in a relaxed and extended mealtime.

Other attempts to stitch together different meal times have also led to the concept of a 'liner.' While not as widely recognized as brunch, the idea of a midday 'liner' has a certain charm. Just like how people combined breakfast and lunch to form brunch, some individuals have attempted to merge lunch and dinner into a single, late-afternoon meal. However, this concept remains more of a joke or a casual, individual choice rather than a recognized culinary tradition.

Some individuals suggest a term like 'Lunner' as a playful nod to brunch, combining the words 'lunch' and 'dinner.' But as of now, it hasn't gained widespread adoption or recognition in the culinary world. This blend of words encapsulates a playful and imaginative attitude towards mealtime, reflecting a culture that increasingly values fluidity and creativity in how we structure our daily habits.

In conclusion, the evolution of meal terminology, from linear divisions of lunch and dinner to the merging concepts like brunch and liner, reflects the changing nature of our daily routines and social practices. These terms and practices continue to evolve as our lifestyles and work environments change, offering new ways to enjoy and structure our meals.