regale

The story

1. Old French · derived fromregale
2. French · derived fromrégaler“to entertain, feast”
3. English todayregale

From French régaler (“to entertain, feast”), from Old French regale, rigale, from gale (“merriment”), probably of Germanic origin (see Old French galer). Influenced by Old French se rigoler (“amuse oneself, rejoice”), of unknown origin. Compare Middle High German begalen (“to charm; enchant”), English gale (“to sing; charm”). Compare also English gala.

First known use, by meaning

• from 17th c. To please or entertain (someone), especially with stories, tales or jokes.
• from 17th c. To provide hospitality for (someone); to supply with abundant food and drink.
• 17th–19th c. To feast (on, with something).