Afternoon Tea vs High Tea

Afternoon Tea and High Tea are terms that are used interchangeably nowadays for a light meal taken place between noon to 2 o'clock or between 2 o'clock and 4 o'clock at restaurants, hotels and tea salons. A customary meal served in a tiered tray consists of sandwiches (egg salad, cucumber with cream cheese, smoked salmon), scones (with devonshire or clotted cream and jam), sweets (cakes, tarts, macaroons) and fruits (chocolate dipped strawberries) accompanied by loose tea leaves steeped in a teapot and glass of champagne (optional).

Afternoon Tea was originated in England during the Victorian era by Anna, the 7th Dutchess of Bedford to appease hunger as there were only two meals served in a day during that time - lunch and dinner. A variety of savories and sweets along with tea were served. This ritual later evolved into a social gathering of friends in formal attire among the high class. High Tea was a late afternoon/early evening meal or also known as Meat Tea consisting of meats, fish, dairy, sandwiches, cakes and other hot dishes among the working class. The meal was served on a high table (dining room table) accompanied by tea.

Today, High Tea is often mistaken for Afternoon Tea and is a term commonly used by hotels, restaurants and tearooms outside England for an elaborate and formal afternoon tea. Would you follow the British's proper term usage of High Tea or the American's?