Burger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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burger

[หˆbษœหrษกษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

fast food

A burger is a sandwich consisting of one or more cooked patties of ground meat, usually beef, placed inside a sliced bun. It is a popular fast food item enjoyed by many people around the world.

Synonyms

cheeseburger, hamburger.

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Word Description / Examples
burger

General term for a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty, usually beef, placed inside a sliced bread roll or bun.

  • Iโ€™m in the mood for a burger tonight.
  • Can I get a classic burger with fries?
hamburger

A specific type of burger that traditionally uses ground beef patties. Often used interchangeably with 'burger' but might emphasize it being plain or traditional.

  • She prefers a simple hamburger without any fancy toppings.
  • The restaurant's hamburger was delightful, just like the classic.
cheeseburger

Specifically refers to a burger with added cheese.

  • He ordered a cheeseburger with extra cheese and bacon.
  • Are you craving a cheeseburger or just a plain burger?

Examples of usage

  • I ordered a cheeseburger and fries for lunch.
  • She likes her burgers with extra pickles and ketchup.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

In informal usage, 'burger' can also refer to a vegetarian or vegan sandwich made with a meat substitute, such as a plant-based patty.

Synonyms

plant-based burger, veggie burger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
burger

Used in general to refer to a sandwich consisting of one or more cooked patties of ground meat, usually beef, placed inside a sliced bread roll or bun. Often when the type of meat or content isn't specified.

  • Let's go grab a burger for lunch
  • The new restaurant downtown serves the best burgers
veggie burger

Refers to a burger that is made primarily from vegetables, legumes, grains, and other plant-based ingredients. Usually focuses on the healthy and vegetarian-friendly aspects.

  • I always get the veggie burger because it's healthier
  • Veggie burgers are a great option for vegetarians at a BBQ
plant-based burger

Used to describe a burger made from ingredients that come from plants, often designed to mimic the taste and texture of meat. This term is preferred when emphasizing the non-meat origin of the patty.

  • They make a delicious plant-based burger that even meat-eaters love
  • He's trying to reduce his meat intake, so he ordered a plant-based burger

Examples of usage

  • I'm not in the mood for meat today, so I'll have a veggie burger instead.
  • The restaurant offers a variety of burgers, including options for vegetarians.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Burgers are often seen as a symbol of American cuisine and culture, especially in fast food.
  • International variations, like the Japanese teriyaki burger or India's paneer burger, showcase how the dish adapts to local tastes.
  • The biggest burger ever made weighed over 2,000 pounds and was created in 2011, highlighting its popularity.

Health

  • Burgers can be made with different proteins, including plant-based options, appealing to health-conscious eaters.
  • Many restaurants now offer burgers with whole grain buns, fresh vegetables, and lighter sauces to cater to healthier diets.
  • Eating burgers in moderation can be part of a balanced diet, especially when made with lean meats and toppings like lettuce and tomatoes.

Science

  • Cooking meat changes its structure, making it tastier and easier to digest โ€“ a key reason for the popularity of grilled burgers.
  • Research shows that the smell of sizzling meat stimulates appetite, which is why burgers often make our mouths water.
  • The Maillard reaction, which occurs when meat is cooked, creates a flavorful crust, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Pop Culture

  • Burgers have appeared in countless movies, such as 'Pulp Fiction', showcasing their deep-rooted connection to American life.
  • Famous brands like McDonald's and Burger King have turned burgers into iconic cultural symbols that transcend borders.
  • Thereโ€™s even a global โ€˜World Burger Dayโ€™ celebrated annually on the 28th of May, dedicated to this beloved food!

Origin of 'burger'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'burger' comes from 'hamburger,' named after the German city of Hamburg.
  • In the late 1800s, the term began appearing in the United States as German immigrants popularized it.
  • Originally, 'hamburger' referred specifically to the meat patty, while 'burger' is a shortened form.

The term 'burger' is a shortening of 'hamburger', which originally referred to a ground beef patty that was popularized in the United States. The modern burger has evolved to include various types of patties, toppings, and buns, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.


See also: burgers.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,422, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.