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Calamari Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฆ‘
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calamari

[หŒkรฆlษ™หˆmษ‘หri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

seafood dish

Calamari refers to the culinary dish made from squid, which is commonly served fried or grilled. It is popular in Mediterranean cuisine and often enjoyed as an appetizer. The dish is typically seasoned with various spices and served with sauces like marinara or aioli. Calamari is not only cherished for its taste but also for its unique texture, which can vary depending on the cooking method. In various cultures, calamari can be prepared in different ways, including stuffing and braising.

Synonyms

fried squid, seafood, squid.

Examples of usage

  • We ordered calamari as an appetizer.
  • The restaurant's calamari was perfectly fried.
  • She loves calamari with garlic sauce.
  • They served calamari with a side of lemon.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Traditions

  • In Mediterranean countries, calamari is often grilled or fried and served with lemon or sauces.
  • In places like Japan, squid is used in sushi and sashimi, showcasing its versatility across cuisines.

Biology

  • These sea creatures are cephalopods, which means they have arms and a big brain compared to their body size.
  • Squid have specialized cells called chromatophores that allow them to change color for communication and camouflage.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, calamari is considered a delicacy and is often included in celebratory meals.
  • Its popularity continues to rise in various countries, becoming a staple in many seafood restaurants worldwide.

Health Aspects

  • Squid is low in calories but high in protein, making it a healthy seafood option.
  • It contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, good for the heart.

Origin of 'calamari'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'calamari' comes from the Italian word for 'squid,' reflecting its Italian culinary roots.
  • The Latin term 'calamarium,' meaning 'ink pot,' is related to squid due to their ability to squirt ink as a defense mechanism.

The term 'calamari' originates from the Italian language, where 'calamaro' means 'squid.' This word can be traced back to the Latin term 'calamarium,' which refers to a pen or ink-holder, derived from 'calamus,' meaning 'reed' or 'pen.' Historically, squid has been consumed in various cultures since ancient times, but the popularity of calamari as an appetizer in restaurants surged in the late 20th century, particularly in Western cuisine. As globalization spread culinary styles, calamari became well-known in many countries, leading to its status as a favorite seafood dish in various regions, particularly along the Mediterranean coast.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,379, 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.