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Eggplant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eggplant

[หˆษ›ษกplรฆnt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

culinary vegetable

Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a dark purple or black fruit that is commonly used as a vegetable in cooking. It belongs to the nightshade family, alongside tomatoes and potatoes. Eggplants are known for their spongy texture and unique flavor, which can absorb other tastes when cooked. They are often used in dishes like ratatouille, moussaka, and baba ghanoush. Aside from their culinary uses, eggplants are also recognized for their nutritional benefits, being low in calories and rich in antioxidants.

Synonyms

aubergine, brinjal.

Examples of usage

  • I made a delicious eggplant Parmesan for dinner.
  • The vegetarian lasagna was packed with layers of eggplant.
  • He grilled eggplant slices for a tasty side dish.
  • She loves adding eggplant to her stir-fries.
  • Eggplant is often used in Mediterranean cuisine.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary

  • Eggplant is a key ingredient in Mediterranean dishes, such as ratatouille and moussaka.
  • It is often used as a meat substitute in vegetarian cooking due to its savory flavor and texture.
  • When cooked, eggplant can absorb oils and flavors, making it versatile in recipes.

Cultural Significance

  • In Indian cuisine, eggplant is famous for its starring role in dishes like 'baingan bharta' and 'bharwan baingan'.
  • In some Asian cultures, eggplants are considered auspicious and are often used in festivals and celebrations.
  • The vegetable has been cultivated for over 2,000 years, particularly in Asia, where it is revered for its nutritional benefits.

Nutritional Facts

  • Eggplant is low in calories and rich in fiber, making it a healthy choice for digestion.
  • It contains antioxidants, such as nasunin, which is believed to protect brain cells from damage.
  • This fruit is also a good source of vitamins like B6 and K, contributing to overall health.

Science

  • Eggplant is technically classified as a berry because it has seeds inside and grows from the flowering part of the plant.
  • It can vary in color from deep purple to white, yellow, and green due to different cultivars.
  • The dark color of the skin is due to its anthocyanin content, which has been linked to various health benefits.

Origin of 'eggplant'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'eggplant' comes from the fruit's early varieties that were small and white, resembling eggs.
  • In British English, it's often called 'aubergine', derived from the French word that also refers to the color purple.
  • The botanical family of eggplant is Solanaceae, which includes potatoes and tomatoes.

The word 'eggplant' originated in the United States in the early 18th century, derived from the color and peculiar shape of the fruit. The name is reflective of an earlier European variation of the plant that produced small, white, egg-shaped fruits. In Britain and other parts of the world, the term 'aubergine' is used, which comes from the French word that itself is derived from the Catalan 'albergรญnia.' This term traces back to the Arabic 'al-badinjan', and ultimately to the Sanskrit 'vatinganah'. The introduction of eggplant to Europe occurred in the Middle Ages, after which it was cultivated throughout the continent, leading to its popularity in various cuisines. Its role in culinary practices has expanded globally, making it a staple in dishes across many cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,168, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.