picnic

A picnic is a social gathering at which a meal is eaten outdoors, ideally in a scenic landscape such as a park or lakeside. The word originates from the French term pique-nique, which appeared in print as early as 1692. It combines the verb piquer (to pick or peck) with the rhyming noun nique (a thing of little importance or a trifle). Originally, the term referred to a fashionable type of indoor social entertainment where each guest contributed a share of the food; the concept shifted to outdoor dining in the 19th century.

The term has become contested in recent decades due to a persistent internet rumor and urban legend claiming the word derives from the phrase "pick a n*****" and originated from white gatherings held to witness the lynching of Black Americans. Historians and etymologists have thoroughly debunked this claim, citing clear evidence that the word existed in Europe long before the racial slur was in common use or the specific practice of lynching occurred in the United States. Despite the lack of etymological evidence connecting the word to racial violence, some institutions and individuals choose to avoid the term to be sensitive to those who believe the myth or find the association—however historically inaccurate—painful.

Example:
"The family packed sandwiches and fruit for a picnic by the river."

Example:
"Because of the controversy surrounding the word's alleged history, the event organizers renamed the 'Summer Picnic' to a 'Community Cookout.'"