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Fatten Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”
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fatten

[หˆfรฆtn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

body weight

To fatten means to make someone or something gain weight, often through diet or by providing more food. It can refer to animals being raised for food or to people gaining weight due to overconsumption. The process may also imply an intentional effort to increase the size or mass of the subject.

Synonyms

bulk up, feed, nourish.

Examples of usage

  • Farmers often fatten their livestock before selling them.
  • She tried to fatten her cat by giving it extra treats.
  • He was fattened by years of indulgent eating.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In biology, organisms can store energy from food in the form of fat, which provides insulation and energy reserves.
  • Metabolism plays a crucial role in how living creatures gain or lose weight when food intake changes.

Culture

  • In some cultures, being plump is seen as a sign of wealth and health, while in others, it's viewed differently, impacting food traditions.
  • Certain celebrations around the world involve dishes that are intentionally rich and can lead to fattening, showcasing local cuisines.

Nutrition

  • Fattening can refer to how diets high in carbohydrates or fats increase body weight, affecting overall health.
  • Understanding the balance of macronutrientsโ€”carbs, proteins, and fatsโ€”is essential for maintaining a healthy body weight.

Literature

  • In many classic tales, the depiction of overindulgence often serves as a cautionary element, warning against the consequences of excess.
  • Literature frequently uses characters that 'fatten' as metaphors for greed or gluttony, highlighting moral lessons.

Origin of 'fatten'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'fรฆtan,' meaning to make fat or to put on weight.
  • Related to the Proto-Germanic word '*faรญรพล,' which also dealt with ideas of making plump or ample.

The word 'fatten' comes from the Old English 'fวฃttian', which means to make fat or rich. This is derived from 'fวฃt', meaning fat or well-fed. The term has evolved over the centuries, with its roots deeply embedded in the agricultural practices of ensuring livestock grow plump for market. The concept of fattening is not only applicable to animals but has been extended to include human contexts, especially regarding diet and lifestyle. Fattening has often had both positive and negative connotations in society, reflecting cultural attitudes toward body weight and health across different eras.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,038, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.