Crisps Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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crisps

[krษชsp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

snack

Thin slices of potato fried until crisp and eaten as a snack.

Synonyms

chips, potato chips.

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Word Description / Examples
crisps

Commonly used in British English to refer to thin slices of potato that have been deep fried and are crunchy.

  • She bought a packet of crisps to eat during the movie.
  • These salt and vinegar crisps are my favorite.
potato chips

Commonly used in American English to specifically refer to thin, fried slices of potato that are crunchy.

  • We had potato chips and sandwiches for lunch.
  • Potato chips are often served at parties.
chips

In American English, this word refers to the same food known as 'crisps' in British English. Also, can refer to fries in British English.

  • Can you pass me the bag of chips?
  • He ordered fish and chips at the pub.

Examples of usage

  • I love eating crisps while watching movies.
  • She always has a packet of crisps in her bag.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Crisps have been featured in various films and TV shows, often depicted as the go-to snack for movie nights.
  • There are annual crisp festivals in places like the UK, celebrating different flavors and types, showcasing their popularity.
  • Popular brands have created memorable advertising campaigns, such as the famous slogan 'Bet you canโ€™t eat just one!'

Science

  • The crunchiness of crisps is linked to the Maillard reaction, a process that occurs during cooking, enhancing flavor and texture.
  • Potato crisps typically contain high fat and salt, making them appealing but also less healthy if eaten excessively.
  • Innovations in food technology have led to the creation of baked crisps as a healthier alternative to fried versions.

Psychology

  • The sound of crunching while eating triggers pleasure responses in the brain, making crisps more enjoyable for many people.
  • Crisps are often used as comfort food, as snacking can release endorphins, boosting mood and reducing stress.
  • Marketing often utilizes sensory psychology to promote flavors, appealing to customers' cravings and desires.

History

  • The origins of crisps can be traced back to the late 19th century in the United States, where they were first made as a way to utilize leftover potatoes.
  • In 1853, a chef named George Crum invented the first potato chip after a customer complained about his fried potatoes being too thick.
  • By the mid-20th century, crisps became a mass-produced snack, leading to a variety of flavors and brands still enjoyed today.

Origin of 'crisps'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'crisps' comes from the Old English word 'crispus', meaning curled or wrinkled.
  • In the UK, 'crisps' refers to what Americans call 'potato chips', highlighting regional differences in language.
  • The term also evolved with the popularity of snacks, especially in the 20th century.

The word 'crisps' originated in the early 19th century as a term for something that is brittle or easily broken. It was later used specifically to refer to the thin slices of fried potatoes that we now know as crisps. The popularity of crisps as a snack food grew in the 20th century, with various flavors and brands becoming widely available.


See also: crisp, crispiness, crispness, crispy.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,566 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.