Ambrosial Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🍯
Add to dictionary

ambrosial

[æmˈbroʊ.ʒəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

food, fragrance

Ambrosial describes something that is delicious or fragrant to an extraordinary degree, often associated with the food of the gods in mythology. It suggests a sweet, rich, or wonderful quality that entices the senses.

Synonyms

delectable, delicious, heavenly, nectarous.

Examples of usage

  • The ambrosial aroma of the flowers filled the air.
  • She prepared an ambrosial meal that delighted all her guests.
  • The ambrosial taste of the dessert left everyone wanting more.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • In food contexts, Michelin-starred chefs frequently use 'ambrosial' to indicate a dish that transcends ordinary flavors.
  • 'Ambrosia' is also a popular fruit salad that represents sweetness and indulgence, connecting back to divine flavors.
  • Certain spices, like saffron or vanilla, can be described as ambrosial for their rich, alluring scents.

Cultural References

  • In literature, writers often use it to elevate the description of food and experiences, making readers visualize heavenly delights.
  • In pop culture, ambrosial experiences are often associated with gourmet dining or luxurious desserts in movies and songs.
  • The concept of ambrosial music refers to sounds that are exceptionally uplifting, similar to how food can affect mood.

Philosophy

  • Classical philosophies often linked ambrosial tastes to spiritual experiences, suggesting that what we eat can elevate the soul.
  • The notion of dining or drinking ambrosially reflects cultural beliefs about food as nourishment for the body and spirit.
  • Food associated with joy or celebration in different cultures can be considered ambrosial due to its ability to unite people.

Literature

  • Ambrosial descriptions often appear in poetry, conveying sensations that elevate ordinary experiences to the divine.
  • Famous literary works frequently contrast ambrosial experiences with mundane, highlighting the exceptional nature of joy.
  • Classic novels often describe moments of bliss, using the term to create a vivid connection between readers and divine pleasures.

Origin of 'ambrosial'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'ambrosios,' meaning immortal or divine.
  • In ancient Greek, it was often used to describe the food of the gods, thought to make them immortal.
  • The term has evolved to describe anything exceptionally pleasing to taste or smell over time.

The word 'ambrosial' is derived from the Greek word 'ambrosios', which means 'immortal' or 'divine'. In ancient mythology, ambrosia was the food or drink that granted immortality to the gods and was often associated with extreme delight and pleasure. The term made its way into Latin as 'ambrosius', and by the early 17th century, it had entered the English language, evolving into 'ambrosial', which conveys a sense of the extraordinary in taste and smell. The lasting use of 'ambrosial' in English reflects its mythological roots, highlighting the connection between food and divinity, suggesting not just nourishment, but something exquisite and transcendent.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,249 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.