Devilled: meaning, definitions and examples

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devilled

 

[ ˈdɛv.ɪld ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

cooked food

Devilled refers to a style of cooking that involves the use of strong spices or seasonings, particularly mustard or cayenne pepper, usually applied to eggs, meats, or sauces. This technique often results in a rich and spicy flavor that is celebrated in various culinary traditions. The term can also imply that the dish has been prepared in a manner that intensifies its taste, making it appealing and tantalizing for the palate. Devilled foods are often served as appetizers or hors d'oeuvres in social gatherings.

Synonyms

hot, seasoned, spiced

Examples of usage

  • Devilled eggs are a classic appetizer at parties.
  • I love the spicy kick of devilled crab.
  • She served devilled mushrooms as a unique starter.
Context #2 | Verb

cooking technique

To devill a food item means to prepare it with a strong seasoning or spice, often involving techniques such as mixing or baking with hot ingredients. This method enhances the flavor profile, making the dish more flavorful and exciting. Egg dishes, in particular, are commonly devilled, where yolks are mixed with various ingredients before being stuffed back into the egg whites and seasoned generously.

Synonyms

enhance, season, spice up

Examples of usage

  • He devilled the chicken with a mix of spices.
  • I plan to devill the eggs with a tangy mustard sauce.
  • The chef devilled the shrimp to impress his guests.

Translations

Translations of the word "devilled" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diabólico

🇮🇳 नरक का

🇩🇪 teuflisch

🇮🇩 setan

🇺🇦 диявольський

🇵🇱 diabelski

🇯🇵 悪魔の

🇫🇷 diabolique

🇪🇸 diabólico

🇹🇷 şeytani

🇰🇷 악마의

🇸🇦 شيطاني

🇨🇿 ďábelský

🇸🇰 diabolský

🇨🇳 恶魔的

🇸🇮 hudičev

🇮🇸 djöfullegur

🇰🇿 жындық

🇬🇪 დევნილი

🇦🇿 cəngavər

🇲🇽 diabólico

Etymology

The term 'devilled' has its roots in the early 18th century, deriving from the word 'devil,' which is often associated with intense heat or spice. In culinary terms, it became a descriptor for foods that are seasoned with a zesty or spicy mix, reflecting a connection to the fiery connotations of the word 'devil.' The process of devilling foods likely emerged from the desire to enhance flavors using strong spices, particularly as European cuisine became more influenced by global spice trade. This cooking style gained popularity, especially in British cuisine, where devilled dishes started appearing in cookbooks. The use of the term has evolved, but the essence of creating a strong, spiced flavor remains central to its meaning in culinary contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,845, 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.