Caviar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🍽️
caviar
[ˈkæviˌɑr ]
Definition
food delicacy
Caviar refers to the processed roe (eggs) of sturgeon and other fish species, typically served as a delicacy. It is often considered a luxury item, enjoyed for its unique flavor and texture. The term 'caviar' is most traditionally associated with the eggs of the sturgeon family, particularly Beluga, Osetra, and Sevruga varieties. Caviar is usually served chilled and can be accompanied by blinis, crackers, or bread. It is distinguished by various qualities, including size, flavor, and color of the eggs.
Synonyms
fish eggs, roe, salty delicacy.
Examples of usage
- I savor my caviar with toast points.
- The restaurant served an exquisite caviar dish.
- She treated herself to a tin of black caviar.
- Caviar is often paired with champagne.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Traditions
- Caviar is considered a delicacy in many cultures and can be served in various ways, such as on blinis or with champagne.
- The most expensive caviar comes from the beluga sturgeon, with prices reaching thousands of dollars per kilogram.
Ecology and Sustainability
- Overfishing and habitat loss have made many sturgeon species endangered, leading to strict regulations around caviar production.
- Sustainable farming practices for caviar are being developed to protect wild fish populations while still providing this gourmet product.
Health Benefits
- Caviar is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to be good for heart health.
- It also contains vitamins A, D, and B12, making it a nutrient-dense food, although it should be consumed in moderation due to its high salt content.
Cultural Significance
- Caviar has been seen as a status symbol in many societies, often associated with wealth and luxury, especially during banquets and celebrations.
- In the 19th century, caviar became popular in Europe, especially among the aristocracy, often served as an appetizer.
Origin of 'caviar'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'caviar' comes from the Persian 'khāyah,' meaning 'egg,' highlighting its origins.
- In Russian, the word is 'ikra,' which also denotes fish roe in general, but caviar usually refers specifically to sturgeon eggs.
The word 'caviar' originates from the Persian 'khaviar', which means 'egg carrier'. The use of sturgeon roe as a delicacy dates back thousands of years, with the earliest documented references occurring in the Byzantine Empire. Historically, caviar was a food reserved for the elite, and its production became concentrated around the Caspian and Black Sea regions, where sturgeon thrive. In the 19th century, the popularity of caviar spread to Western Europe and the United States. However, overfishing and environmental changes have led to a decline in sturgeon populations, resulting in stricter regulations on caviar production. Today, sustainable farming practices and substitutes such as salmon roe have emerged, but traditional sturgeon caviar remains a symbol of opulence and culinary sophistication.