Fattening: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used to describe foods that tend to cause weight gain if consumed excessively. Often has a slightly negative connotation implying unhealthy choices.

• Beware of those fattening desserts; they can ruin your diet.
• That cake is delicious, but so fattening.

Used in a more neutral, scientific or nutritional context to describe foods or beverages that are high in calories.

• Athletes need caloric foods to maintain their energy levels.
• This meal is too caloric for someone trying to lose weight.

A medical or academic term used to describe environments, behaviors, or foods that contribute to obesity. Has a negative connotation and is often used in discussions about public health.

• Fast food restaurants have created an obesogenic environment for today's youth.
• Processed foods are considered highly obesogenic.

Describes activities, diets, or exercises specifically intended to help someone gain weight, often in a controlled or purposeful manner. The tone can be neutral or positive.

• He followed a weight-gaining diet to bulk up for the competition.
• She chose a weight-gaining exercise routine to build muscle mass.

Mostly used in relation to foods that can cause weight gain when consumed in large amounts. It generally has a negative connotation since it's often related to unhealthy eating habits.

• Eating too many fattening foods can lead to health issues.
• Chocolate cake is delicious but very fattening.

Used to describe the act of increasing the strength, size, or substance of something, not necessarily related to weight. Often used in a more figurative sense, especially in business or security contexts.

• We need to beef up our security measures before the event.
• The company plans to beef up its marketing efforts next month.