What term did the Romans use to refer to dessert?

The term used by the Romans to refer to dessert is "secunda mensa." In Roman dining customs, meals typically consisted of multiple courses, with the first course known as "prima mensa," which included the main dishes. Following this, the "secunda mensa" was served, which consisted of lighter fare and sweets. This term specifically denotes the courses that were served after the main meal, focusing on desserts, fruits, and other sweet dishes to conclude the dining experience.

Understanding this distinction is essential, as it reflects the structure of a traditional Roman meal and helps to appreciate how they viewed and organized their culinary practices. The other terms, while related to the context of dining, do not directly refer to dessert in the same way that "secunda mensa" does.