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Flapjack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flapjack

[ˈflæpˌdʒæk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

breakfast dish

A flapjack is a thick, flat cake made from rolled oats, syrup, and butter, typically served hot with butter or syrup.

Synonyms

griddlecake, oatcake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
flapjack

In the US, this term is another name for pancakes, often thin and cooked on a griddle.

  • We had a big stack of flapjacks for breakfast with maple syrup.
  • Flapjacks are a classic American breakfast food.
oatcake

Commonly used in the UK and Canada to describe a type of flatbread made from oats, less sweet than flapjacks.

  • We enjoyed the oatcakes with cheese and chutney.
  • Oatcakes are a traditional Scottish food.
griddlecake

A term used to describe a thin pancake cooked on a griddle, often found in American cuisine.

  • She made blueberry griddlecakes for brunch.
  • Griddlecakes are best served hot with plenty of butter.

Examples of usage

  • Would you like a flapjack for breakfast?
  • The menu includes a variety of toppings for your flapjack.
Context #2 | Noun

British English

In British English, a flapjack refers to a sweet traybake made from rolled oats, butter, sugar, and syrup.

Synonyms

oat bar, oat slice.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
flapjack

In American English, 'flapjack' is another word for a pancake, usually served for breakfast with syrup, butter, and possibly fruits.

  • She flipped the flapjack with ease
  • We had a stack of flapjacks for breakfast
oat bar

This term refers to a healthy snack bar made primarily from oats, often including other ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate. It's usually marketed as a convenient and nutritious snack.

  • I always carry an oat bar in my bag for a quick energy boost
  • This oat bar is my favorite because it's packed with dried berries
oat slice

This term is used for a snack or dessert similar to the British flapjack but emphasizes the slice form. It is baked in a tray and then cut into slices for serving.

  • She brought a tray of delicious oat slices to the party
  • These oat slices are perfect for the lunchbox

Examples of usage

  • She baked a batch of delicious flapjacks for the school fundraiser.
  • The kids enjoyed the chewy texture of the flapjack.
Context #3 | Noun

slang

In slang, 'flapjack' can refer to a pancake or a hotcake.

Synonyms

hotcake, pancake.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
flapjack

In British English, 'flapjack' refers to a sweet baked bar made from oats, butter, and syrup or honey. Commonly eaten as a snack or dessert. In American English, 'flapjack' is another term for pancake, often used in a casual or rustic setting.

  • I packed some flapjacks for the kids' lunch today.
  • Let's make some flapjacks for breakfast before we go hiking.
pancake

'Pancake' is the most neutral and widely-used term. It can be used in any context, from casual to formal, and is understood worldwide. Typically served for breakfast, it can be sweet or savory.

  • We had blueberry pancakes for breakfast.
  • The hotel served a variety of pancakes, including gluten-free options.
hotcake

'Hotcake' is commonly used in diner or casual restaurant settings in the United States. It evokes a warm, homey feeling and is often associated with traditional American breakfasts.

  • The diner around the corner makes the best hotcakes in town.
  • Nothing beats a stack of hotcakes with maple syrup on a Sunday morning.

Examples of usage

  • Do you prefer pancakes or flapjacks for breakfast?
  • The diner serves fluffy flapjacks with maple syrup.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Traditions

  • Flapjacks are a popular treat in the United Kingdom, often enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.
  • They can be customized with various ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, and dried fruits, making each batch unique.
  • Traditionally, flapjacks do not include any leavening agents, so they stay dense and chewy.

Nutrition

  • Flapjacks are energy-rich, primarily due to their oat content, providing sustained energy, which is why they are popular among hikers and athletes.
  • Homemade versions can be healthier than store-bought ones, allowing control over ingredients like sugar and fat.
  • They often help provide a good source of fiber, making them a more filling snack compared to many processed options.

Pop Culture

  • Flapjacks have been featured in various culinary shows and competitions, often judged on texture and taste.
  • In literature, flapjacks occasionally appear as comfort food, associated with cozy scenes and togetherness.
  • Certain famous chefs have popularized variations of flapjacks, incorporating gourmet ingredients to elevate this classic treat.

Historical Context

  • Historically, flapjacks were a staple for laborers and travelers, providing a portable source of energy.
  • During World War II, flapjacks became popular due to rationing, as they could be made from simple, readily available ingredients.
  • The appeal of flapjacks has endured, evolving from a simple food to a trendy item in cafes and health food stores.

Origin of 'flapjack'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'flapjack' has roots in Old English, where 'flap' means to move quickly, resembling how pancakes are flipped.
  • In some regions, especially in the UK, 'flapjack' specifically refers to an oat bar, while in the US it can mean a pancake.
  • The word evolved to mean a sweet treat in the 20th century, gaining popularity in British cuisine.

The term 'flapjack' originated in the 17th century in Britain, where it initially referred to a flat tart made with fruit. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the current usage, describing a type of cake or bar made with oats, syrup, and butter. The term 'flapjack' has also been used in American slang to refer to pancakes or hotcakes. Overall, the history of 'flapjack' showcases the evolution of culinary language and regional variations in food terminology.

See also: flap, flapjacks, flapping, unflappable.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,305, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.