Buns Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”
Add to dictionary

buns

[bสŒnz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food item

Buns are soft, round bread rolls used as a base for a variety of foods, typically sandwiches or burgers. They are often slightly sweet and can be made from various types of dough, sometimes enriched with ingredients like milk or butter. Buns can also be steamed or baked, depending on the culinary tradition.

Synonyms

bread rolls, loaves, rolls.

Examples of usage

  • I ordered a burger with a toasted bun.
  • She baked fresh cinnamon buns for breakfast.
  • The hot dog was served in a soft bun.
  • He prefers a whole wheat bun for his sandwich.
Context #2 | Noun

hairstyle

In hairstyling, a bun refers to a hairstyle in which the hair is gathered into a round shape and secured at the back or top of the head. This style is commonly worn in formal settings or by those in dance and performing arts for practicality and neatness.

Synonyms

chignon, twist, updo.

Examples of usage

  • She wore her hair in a sleek bun for the gala.
  • The dancer had a perfect ballet bun.
  • A bun hairstyle can be elegant and simple.
  • He noticed her hair was twisted into a messy bun.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary History

  • The practice of making buns originated in ancient Greece, where they were baked in clay ovens.
  • In the UK, the 'hot cross bun' is traditionally eaten on Good Friday, with a rich background symbolizing the end of Lent.
  • American burger buns gained popularity in the 20th century, becoming essential for the fast-food industry.

Cultural Variations

  • In Japan, 'steamed buns' known as 'bao' are popular and often filled with meats or sweets.
  • Scandinavian countries enjoy 'kanelbullar', cinnamon rolls that are a type of bun and are celebrated on cinnamon bun day every October 4th.
  • In Brazil, 'pรฃo de queijo' are cheese-filled buns made from tapioca flour, showcasing the regionโ€™s unique culinary influence.

Popular Culture

  • In the animated film 'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs', buns play a humorous and central role in the spaghetti tornado scene.
  • Buns have become a popular symbol for comfort food, often featured in TV shows and movies as a go-to snack.
  • The character 'Bun Bun' from the comic series 'The Adventures of Bunny and Puddy' highlights buns in a fun and whimsical way for kids.

Nutrition

  • Whole grain buns can be a good source of fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.
  • Sweet buns, while tasty, often have added sugars that can increase calorie content compared to their savory counterparts.
  • Alternatives like gluten-free buns are becoming more popular to accommodate various dietary needs among consumers.

Baking Techniques

  • The process of kneading dough is essential for making buns, helping to develop gluten and create a light texture.
  • The temperature of the liquid used in the dough can affect how quickly the buns rise, with warm water or milk promoting faster fermentation.
  • Brushing buns with an egg wash before baking gives them a shiny, golden finish.

Origin of 'buns'

The word 'bun' comes from the Middle English term 'bunne', which is a diminutive of the word 'bunne' used historically to describe a small rounded bread or pastry. Its origin can be traced further to the Old English 'buna', meaning a small loaf. The culinary use of the term has evolved, with buns being integral to various cultures worldwide for making sandwiches, burgers, and pastries. The hairstyle 'bun' likely derived from the rounded shape associated with certain types of bread, reflecting both aesthetics and practicality. Over time, the word has maintained its relevance in both cooking and fashion contexts, illustrating the versatility of this simple term.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,867, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.