Eaten Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eaten

[หˆiหtn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

food

consume (food); have a meal

Synonyms

consume, consume, devour, ingest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
eaten

Use this word when referring to the simple act of having food. It is neutral and commonly used in everyday conversation.

  • I have already eaten breakfast.
  • She has eaten all the cookies.
consume

This word is more formal and often used in contexts involving health, nutrition, or general usage. It also refers to using up resources.

  • It is important to consume a balanced diet.
  • The city consumes a lot of energy.
devour

This word implies eating something quickly and eagerly, often with a sense of greed. It can also be used metaphorically for reading or watching something with great enthusiasm. It has a slightly negative connotation due to the sense of greed and eagerness.

  • He devoured the entire pizza in minutes.
  • She devoured the novel in just one day.
ingest

This is a scientific or medical term used when talking about the intake of substances through the mouth. It is more formal and technical.

  • Ingesting large amounts of salt can be harmful.
  • Animals often ingest plants and other materials in their habitat.

Examples of usage

  • I had already eaten breakfast when you called.
  • She had eaten all the cookies by the time I arrived.
  • We will eat dinner together later.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the ritual of sharing a meal holds significant social importance, marking friendships and family bonds.
  • Many cuisines have traditional dishes that symbolize prosperity and are commonly 'eaten' during festivals.
  • The act of eating together is often seen as an expression of love and hospitality across cultures.

Psychology

  • Research shows that the environment in which people eat can greatly influence their eating habits and enjoyment.
  • Mindful eating, where one is fully present during meals, can enhance enjoyment and satisfaction with food.
  • Emotions often play a huge role in food choices, where comfort foods are commonly 'eaten' during times of stress.

Nutrition

  • 'Eaten' foods can significantly impact an individualโ€™s health; the quality of food often determines overall well-being.
  • A balanced diet is crucial as it encompasses various food groups that should be eaten for optimal nutrition.
  • Food safety is vital; many foodborne illnesses arise from improperly handled items that have been eaten.

Literature

  • Food and the act of eating often serve as strong symbols in literary works, representing abundance or scarcity.
  • In many narratives, the meals characters share become critical moments of connection or conflict.
  • Several famous books detail feasts or meals as a backdrop to the unfolding human experience.

Origin of 'eaten'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'eaten' comes from the Old English word 'etan', which means to consume or devour.
  • It evolved through Middle English as 'eten', before taking on the modern form we know today.
  • In many languages, the roots of the word reflect the act of consuming food, showcasing a universal concept.

The word 'eaten' is the past participle of the verb 'eat', which comes from Old English etan, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch eten and German essen. The concept of eating has been a fundamental part of human survival and culture since ancient times, with various rituals and traditions associated with food consumption.


See also: eat, eatable, eater, eatery, overeat, overeater, overeating.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,396 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.