What is the term used for a light evening meal in Roman culture?

In Roman culture, the term for a light evening meal is "vesperna." This meal would typically be taken after the main meal of the day, which was cena, and was not as substantial as the earlier repast. The concept of having a lighter evening meal fits into the Roman lifestyle, which often prioritized socializing and leisure in the evening hours. Vesperna served as a way to conclude the day with something simple and refreshing.

The other terms refer to different meals in the Roman dietary schedule. "Cena" refers to the main meal of the day, typically a larger and more elaborate feast. "Prandium" is the term for a lighter meal, usually taken around midday, often consisting of cold dishes. "Glis" refers to a dormouse, a delicacy in ancient Rome, rather than a type of meal. Each of these terms plays a distinct role in understanding the Roman culinary tradition, with vesperna specifically denoting the light evening meal.