Dressings: meaning, definitions and examples

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dressings

 

[ ˈdrɛsɪŋz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

food preparation

Dressings are sauces typically used to enhance the flavor of salads or cold dishes. They can be creamy, vinaigrette, or oil-based, and are often made from various ingredients such as oils, vinegar, herbs, and spices.

Synonyms

condiment, dipping sauce, sauce

Examples of usage

  • She added a balsamic vinaigrette dressing to her salad.
  • The chef prepared a creamy ranch dressing for the vegetables.
  • Italian dressing is a popular choice for pasta salads.
Context #2 | Noun

medical application

In a medical context, dressings refer to sterile coverings placed over a wound to protect it from infection and promote healing. These can vary in type depending on the nature of the wound.

Synonyms

bandage, padding, wound cover

Examples of usage

  • The doctor applied a fresh dressing to the patient's incision.
  • It's important to change the dressing regularly to prevent infection.
  • Elastic dressings can be used for support and compression.

Word origin

The word 'dressings' comes from the Old French 'dresser', meaning 'to prepare' or 'to set' and the term later evolved to refer to the preparation of food. In culinary terms, dressing has been used since at least the 16th century to describe sauces meant to enhance dishes. The medical sense of the term developed in the late 19th century as advancements in surgical techniques necessitated better methods of wound care. Dressings in medicine are essential for treating injuries and have evolved over time with the introduction of synthetic materials and advanced techniques.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,495, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.