what is deli short for

The term "deli" is short for delicatessen, which is a retail establishment that sells a selection of fine, exotic, or foreign prepared foods. Delicatessen originated in Germany (original: Delikatessen) during the 18th century, and the term "deli" is an American English version of the German word. In the United States, a delicatessen (or deli) is often a combined grocery store and restaurant, although the term may also be used for a strictly take-out or sit-down restaurant. A deli is a market where you can buy prepared food or shop for staples including meat and cheese.