Dish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dish

[dɪʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a restaurant

A plate or container for serving food.

Synonyms

bowl, plate, platter.

Examples of usage

  • The waiter brought out a delicious-looking dish of pasta.
  • She washed the dishes after dinner.
Context #2 | Noun

culinary

A particular type of food prepared as part of a meal.

Synonyms

cuisine, meal, recipe.

Examples of usage

  • The chef's special dish was a seafood risotto.
  • She is known for her signature dish, a spicy curry.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To talk about someone or something in a disparaging way.

Synonyms

badmouth, criticize, gossip.

Examples of usage

  • Don't dish about your friends behind their backs.
  • She loves to dish the latest gossip.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Significance

  • In culinary terms, a 'dish' can refer to a specific preparation of food, like pasta or salad.
  • Some cultures define a well-rounded meal by the number of dishes served, showcasing variety and taste.
  • Popular competition shows often feature 'signature dishes', where chefs aim to impress with their creations.

Cultural Associations

  • In many cultures, sharing a 'dish' symbolizes community and the importance of coming together for meals.
  • Certain dishes can represent national identities, like sushi in Japan or paella in Spain.
  • Festivals around the world often celebrate specific dishes that are traditional to particular regions or occasions.

Art and Design

  • Ceramic art often focuses on innovative dish designs, merging functionality with aesthetic appeal.
  • Famous artists, such as Pablo Picasso, created unique dish shapes that reflected their artistic style.
  • The design of a dish can influence how food is perceived and enjoyed, making tableware an important part of any dining experience.

Science of Eating

  • Research shows that the shape and color of a dish can affect how much food people eat, influencing portion sizes.
  • Studies indicate that serving food in smaller dishes can help control overeating and promote healthier eating habits.
  • The psychology of eating emphasizes the importance of presentation; dishes that look good can enhance the overall dining experience.

Origin of 'dish'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French term 'diss', which meant a plate or a dish for serving food.
  • In medieval times, dishes were made from various materials, including wood, metal, and ceramic.
  • The use of the word 'dish' expanded in the 14th century to include not just the vessel but also the food itself.

The word 'dish' originated from the Old English word 'disc', which meant a plate or bowl. Over time, 'dish' evolved to also refer to the food served on a plate. The verb form of 'dish' meaning to talk gossip or criticize likely came from the idea of serving up information or opinions. 'Dish' has been a common word in the English language for centuries, used in both culinary and informal contexts.


See also: dishcloth, dishes, dishrag, dishware.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,755 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.