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Aubergine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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aubergine

[หˆษ”หbษ™ส’iหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

vegetable, color

Aubergine, also known as eggplant in American English, is a member of the nightshade family and is characterized by its deep purple skin and spongy flesh. It is commonly used in various cuisines worldwide, often in dishes such as ratatouille, baba ghanoush, and curries. The term can also refer to the color that resembles this vegetable.

Synonyms

brinjal, eggplant.

Examples of usage

  • I cooked an aubergine dish for dinner last night.
  • She wore an aubergine dress to the party.
  • In Mediterranean cuisine, aubergine is a staple ingredient.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • In Mediterranean cuisine, this vegetable is often grilled or baked and is a key ingredient in dishes like ratatouille.
  • It can be made into a creamy dip called baba ghanoush, popular in Middle Eastern cuisines.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, aubergines are considered a symbol of fertility and prosperity.
  • During the Middle Ages, it was believed that the fruit could cause insanity if consumed, a misconception that added to its mystique.

Nutritional Facts

  • Rich in fiber and low in calories, aubergines contain antioxidants that are beneficial for heart health.
  • It is a source of vitamins B1, B6, and potassium, promoting overall body function.

Fun Facts

  • The aubergine is technically a berry, making it part of the same family as tomatoes and peppers.
  • It's also known as 'eggplant' in North America and has different varieties, including white and striped versions.

Origin of 'aubergine'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'aubergine' comes from the French language, which itself borrowed it from the Catalan 'albergรญnia', and ultimately from the Arabic 'al-badhinjan'.
  • It was originally used to describe the eggplant, which is believed to have originated in India or Southeast Asia.

The word 'aubergine' comes from the French language, which in turn got its reference from the Arabic word 'al-bฤแธตฤซnวงฤn', derived from Persian 'bฤd ุงู†ุฌฤn (bฤd-anjฤn)'. The eggplant itself was domesticated from wild species in India and has been cultivated in various regions for centuries. It made its way to Europe in the Middle Ages, where it was initially met with skepticism due to its proximity to toxic nightshade plants. Over time, it gained popularity and became a staple in various cuisines. The name 'eggplant' originates from the white, egg-shaped varieties that were first brought to Europe, leading to the term's use in American English. The shift in terminology reflects both regional linguistic preferences and cultural culinary embraces.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,375, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.