What does the term cēna refer to in Roman culture?

The term cēna in Roman culture specifically refers to the main evening meal, which typically took place during the later part of the day. This meal was significant and often consisted of multiple courses, indicating its importance in Roman social life. The cēna was the main opportunity for family and friends to gather, and it could extend for several hours, allowing interactions and discussions to occur over food. While it can sometimes be seen as a celebratory feast or a social event, those interpretations are broader and can encompass various occasions, such as banquets or gatherings, rather than the specific term associated with the daily evening meal. Therefore, defining cēna as a dinner meal is both accurate and reflective of its primary role in Roman dining customs.