Comestible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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comestible
[kษหmษstษชb(ษ)l ]
Definition
food
Suitable for eating; edible.
Synonyms
consumable, eatable, edible, palatable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| comestible |
Used mostly in formal or literary contexts to refer to food or items that can be eaten.
|
| edible |
Used to indicate that something is safe to eat and not toxic, often in the context of distinguishing between things that are edible and non-edible.
|
| eatable |
Used informally to describe something that is good enough to be eaten, often implying it's barely acceptable or just satisfactory.
|
| consumable |
Refers to items that can be used up or depleted, often in the context of supplies, materials, or substances that are used until they are gone. It can also include food, but is more general.
|
| palatable |
Used to describe food or drinks that are pleasant to taste. It indicates a higher quality of taste than 'eatable'.
|
Examples of usage
- This mushroom is not only beautiful but also comestible.
- The menu features a variety of comestible options.
- The berries looked ripe and comestible.
- The chef only uses the freshest and most comestible ingredients.
- The travelers were relieved to find some comestible food in the remote village.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary
- The culinary world often uses the term for items that are fit for ingestion, distinguishing between edible and non-edible items.
- In gourmet cooking, certain plants and flowers are classified as comestibles, expanding beyond traditional food items.
- Chefs might describe a dish's ingredients as comestibles to highlight freshness and quality.
Nutrition
- Not all comestibles are nutritionally equal; some can provide significant health benefits while others may be unhealthy.
- The classification of foods as comestibles often helps in dietary planning, especially for those with allergies.
- As dietary trends evolve, what is considered comestible changes, often influenced by cultural and scientific advancements.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have unique comestibles, reflecting local agriculture and traditional practices.
- In some cultures, certain insects are considered comestibles and are valued for their protein content.
- Festivals around the world often celebrate specific comestibles, turning them into cultural landmarks.
Literature
- The term has appeared in classic literature to describe food, as writers sought to evoke the sensory experience of eating.
- Authors have used comestibles metaphorically, exploring themes of consumption and desire.
- In many novels, the act of sharing comestibles can symbolize community and unity among characters.
Origin of 'comestible'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin term 'comestibilis', which means 'to be eaten'.
- The Latin root 'comedere' means 'to eat up', indicating a focus on consuming food.
- It entered English in the early 15th century, originally describing a type of food that was acceptable to eat.
The word 'comestible' comes from the Latin word 'comestibilis', which is derived from 'comestus', meaning 'eaten up', from the verb 'comedere', composed of 'com-' (together) and 'edere' (to eat). The term has been used in English since the 17th century to describe something suitable for eating.