Dollop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dollop

[หˆdรคlษ™p ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cooking, serving

A dollop is a small, roughly measured amount of something, typically a food substance like whipped cream, sauce, or yogurt. The term implies a casual and informal serving size, which can vary in volume. It's often used when describing how much of an ingredient to add, especially in recipes. Dollops are commonly spooned onto dishes in an unstructured manner, making them visually appealing.

Synonyms

blob, lump, portion, scoop, spoonful.

Examples of usage

  • Add a dollop of sour cream to the tacos.
  • She topped her desserts with a dollop of whipped cream.
  • He added a dollop of mustard to his sandwich.
  • The soup was served with a dollop of pesto.
  • Please give me a dollop of ice cream.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary Use

  • In cooking, a dollop often refers to a heaping spoonful, especially of creamy ingredients like mayonnaise or whipped cream.
  • It can transform simple dishes, like soups or desserts, into something more appealing by adding a delightful texture and visual element.

Cultural References

  • In English-speaking cultures, you might hear someone ask for 'a dollop of sauce' on their taco, showing its common use in casual dining.
  • In various cookbooks and shows, you'll often find recipes calling for a dollop, making it familiar for chefs and home cooks alike.

Art and Creativity

  • The concept of adding a 'dollop' to artwork or crafts suggests adding a joyful or unexpected element, much like a small swirl of paint can enhance a canvas.
  • In poetry, using 'dollop' can evoke playful imagery and feelings, helping to paint a richer picture in the reader's mind.

Psychological Appeal

  • Seeing a dollop of something appealing, like whipped cream on a dessert, can trigger positive emotions and cravings, relating to comfort food.
  • The visual aspect of a dollop makes food look more enticing, affecting how we perceive flavor before tasting.

Origin of 'dollop'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'dollop' likely comes from the 17th century and may be derived from the word 'doll,' which refers to a small quantity or a playful version of the word.
  • It was originally used to describe a small blob or quantity of a soft substance, like cream or jam, and gradually evolved to become a more general term.

The word 'dollop' is believed to have originated in the 19th century, possibly derived from the British dialect term 'dop', meaning a small quantity. It is related to similar words in the English language that denote a small quantity or lump. The etymology suggests a casual and unmeasured serving, reflecting the informal nature of its usage in culinary contexts. It gained popularity as a descriptive term for serving condiments and toppings, making it a staple in recipes. Over time, 'dollop' has become a common term in both cooking and everyday language, emphasizing the whimsical and relaxed aspect of portioning food.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,446 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.