velbekomme
The Danish way to say "bon appetit" is velbekomme.
velbekomme is a traditional phrase used to wish someone an enjoyable meal. It can also function as a polite response to someone saying tak for mad (thanks for the food).
What does it mean word for word?
The word velbekomme is derived from an expression meaning "may it do you good" or "may it be welcome to you".
Which one should you use?
While velbekomme is used to wish someone a good meal, it is most commonly used as a polite response when someone expresses gratitude for the food they have eaten.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions, such as Jutland, it is common to say Go' appetit! instead of the more standard God appetit!
When do people say it?
When wishing someone a good meal in a traditional Danish context, you can use velbekomme! to mean "enjoy your meal."
Did you know?
- The word velbekomme can function as both a wish for a good meal and a response to thanks, making it a linguistic bridge between the start and end of a dinner.
- The word velbekomme is actually a wish for the food to have a positive physical effect on the person eating it.
- The word velbekomme is built from vel, meaning 'well', and bekomme, meaning 'to effect'.
Examples in context
- Velbekomme, maden ser dejlig ud.Bon appetit, the food looks delicious.
Example conversation
Mads and Freja are sitting down for dinner.
- MadsMaden er klar, Freja. Velbekomme!The food is ready, Freja. Enjoy your meal!
- FrejaTak, Mads! Det ser lækkert ud.Thanks, Mads! It looks delicious.
- MadsJa, jeg har lavet din yndlingsret.Yes, I made your favorite dish.
- FrejaHvor er du sød. Tak skal du have!How sweet of you. Thank you!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry velbekomme, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries velbekomme, CC BY-SA 4.0.
