Edible: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used to describe something that is safe to eat, especially when pointing out that something is not poisonous or harmful.

• Some wild mushrooms are edible, but you have to be very careful
• The cake was so old it hardly seemed edible

Usually refers to food that is pleasant to eat, often implying it is of acceptable quality or taste. It can have a slightly negative connotation if used to describe something that is barely good enough to eat.

• The meal was simple but eatable
• I wouldn't say the soup was gourmet, but it was definitely eatable

An archaic or very rare term for something that is edible, mostly used in historical or literary contexts.

• The botanist studied several plants to determine if they were esculent
• The explorers foraged for esculent roots and berries in the wild

A more formal or literary word for food, generally used in written language or formal contexts.

• The market was filled with various comestibles, from fresh fruits to baked goods
• The travelers gathered their comestibles to prepare for the next day's journey

Used to describe something that is safe and suitable to eat.

• These mushrooms are edible
• The cake looked delicious, but wasn’t edible because it was made of plastic

General term for anything that is consumed to provide nutritional support for the body.

• I bought some food for the picnic
• Fast food is not always the healthiest option

Refers to substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition, often used in a more formal or medical context.

• The baby needs proper nourishment to grow
• They sought nourishment from the fruits and vegetables in the garden