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Bisque Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bisque

[bɪsk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food

A thick, creamy soup made from shellfish or fish stock, typically flavoured with wine or sherry.

Synonyms

broth, chowder, soup.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bisque

Another usage, though less common, is referring to a pale, pinkish-tan color similar to unglazed pottery.

  • The artist chose a bisque color for the clay figurines
  • Her blouse was a pretty bisque shade
soup

A general term for a liquid dish, typically savory, and made by combining ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or legumes with stock, juice, water, or another liquid.

  • Tomato soup and grilled cheese is my favorite comfort food
  • During cold winter days, nothing beats a hot bowl of soup
chowder

A thick, chunky soup that often contains pieces of seafood, vegetables, and potatoes. Commonly associated with coastal cuisines.

  • We tried clam chowder for the first time on our trip to New England
  • The corn chowder was hearty and satisfying
broth

A simple, clear liquid made by simmering meat, fish, or vegetables in water. Often used as a base for other soups and recipes.

  • She made chicken broth to use in the risotto
  • The vegetable broth added a lot of flavor to the stew

Examples of usage

  • She ordered a bowl of lobster bisque for dinner.
  • The bisque was served with a side of crusty bread.
Context #2 | Noun

pottery

Unglazed white or pale-coloured ceramic ware.

Synonyms

ceramic, earthenware, porcelain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bisque

Use 'bisque' to refer to unglazed pottery that has been fired once. It's often used when discussing pottery that's not yet finished.

  • The artist decided to apply the glaze only after the bisque phase
  • Bisque pieces are more fragile than fully glazed items
ceramic

Use 'ceramic' when referring broadly to items made from clay and hardened by heat. This term covers a wide range of pottery including tiles, pottery dishes, and decorative objects.

  • The museum has an extensive collection of ancient ceramics
  • She specialized in creating ceramic tiles for kitchens and bathrooms
porcelain

Use 'porcelain' to refer to a high-quality, fine, and white type of ceramic fired at very high temperatures. It's often used for decorative objects, fine dishes, and tiles.

  • The teacup set was made of delicate porcelain
  • Porcelain dolls are often highly sought after by collectors
earthenware

Use 'earthenware' to refer to pottery made from a type of clay fired at a relatively low temperature, resulting in a porous and opaque finish. It's typically used for practical items like dishes and flower pots.

  • The garden was lined with colorful earthenware pots
  • This traditional earthenware bowl is perfect for serving soup

Examples of usage

  • The artist displayed a collection of bisque figurines at the gallery.
  • The delicate bisque vase was a prized possession.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Origins

  • Bisque originated in France and is traditionally made with crustaceans like lobster or shrimp.
  • The name 'bisque' is thought to have come from the French word for 'biscuit,' referencing the method of cooking the seafood.
  • Variants of bisque have been made with different bases, including vegetables, creating a diverse array of flavors.

Cultural Significance

  • In fine dining, bisque is often served as an elegant appetizer, highlighting its luxurious texture and rich taste.
  • The dish is frequently associated with coastal regions, especially in culinary traditions that celebrate seafood.

Science of Cooking

  • The creaminess of bisque often comes from thickening agents like flour or pureed vegetables, making it smoother.
  • Temperature control is vital, as overheating dairy can curdle, affecting the soup’s texture and taste.

Art and Literature

  • Bisque has found its way into culinary literature, often used as a symbol of gourmet cooking and sophistication.
  • Visual art has depicted this dish in various forms, showcasing not just the soup but the accompanying presentation.

Modern Variations

  • In today’s cuisine, non-traditional bisques have emerged, featuring ingredients like tomatoes, pumpkin, and even mushrooms.
  • Fusion cooking has also led to unique takes on bisque, incorporating flavors from various global cuisines.

Origin of 'bisque'

The word 'bisque' originated from the French language, where it initially referred to a shellfish soup. Over time, the term expanded to include creamy soups made from various ingredients. In the context of pottery, 'bisque' refers to ceramic ware that has been fired once but not glazed. This term has been widely used in culinary and artistic fields, showcasing the versatility and elegance associated with the word.

See also: biscuits.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,393 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.