Calamari: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

Etymology

• 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.

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.

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.

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• 37376 lifer
• 37377 backfiring
• 37378 oiliness
• 37379 calamari
• 37380 enfilading
• 37381 caricaturing
• 37382 metacarpus
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