Flatbread Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🍞

Add to dictionary

flatbread

[ˈflætˌbrɛd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

food

A type of bread that is flat, not risen, and often unleavened. It is a staple food in many cultures around the world.

Synonyms

naan, pita, unleavened bread.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flatbread	General term for a variety of breads that are flat and often served with dips, spreads, or as a side dish. We served the stew with a side of flatbread Flatbread can be cooked quickly on a hot surface
unleavened bread	Bread made without yeast, often associated with cultural or religious practices. It tends to be more dense and is frequently used in Jewish cuisine, such as during Passover. We ate unleavened bread during the Passover Seder This type of bread doesn't rise because it has no yeast
pita	Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, often used to make sandwiches or serve with hummus and falafel. We made a tasty pita sandwich with chicken and vegetables Pita bread is great for dipping in hummus
naan	Indian cuisine, often cooked in a tandoor oven, and typically served with Indian dishes like curry or tandoori chicken. The curry was delicious with a side of garlic naan Naan is perfect for soaking up the spicy sauce

Examples of usage

I love to eat flatbread with hummus.
Naan is a popular type of flatbread in Indian cuisine.
The Mediterranean diet often includes pita bread, a form of flatbread.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

architecture

A flat, thin piece of stone, clay, or wood used as a building material, typically for roofing or flooring.

Synonyms

shingle, slate, tile.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
flatbread	Use when referring to a type of bread that is thin and flat, typically used in culinary contexts. I made some flatbread to go with the hummus. We had flatbread pizza for dinner.
tile	Used to describe a flat piece of baked clay, plastic, or other material used for covering walls, floors, and roofs. We installed new ceramic tiles in the kitchen. The roof is made of red clay tiles.
slate	Often used to refer to a type of fine-grained rock commonly used as a building material, especially for roof tiles. Can also mean a clean or fresh start in figurative language. The old cottage has a beautiful slate roof. Let's start with a clean slate this year.
shingle	Commonly used in construction to refer to a small, thin piece of building material, usually for roofs. The storm damaged several shingles on the roof. We need to replace the old shingles before winter.

Examples of usage

The roof was made of flatbread, giving the house a rustic look.
The ancient Romans used flatbread as a flooring material in their villas.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Diversity

Flatbreads are enjoyed in many cultures, from a simple tortilla in Mexico to naan in India and pita in the Middle East.
Some cultures eat flatbread as a wrap for meats and veggies, turning it into a convenient meal on the go, like gyros or falafel.

Historical Significance

Flatbreads have been made for thousands of years; evidence of their existence dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Mesopotamians.
They were often prepared on hot stones or in clay ovens, showcasing the inventive cooking methods of early societies.

Nutritional Facts

Many flatbreads are whole grain, offering a healthier alternative to other types of bread and providing dietary fiber.
Due to their simple ingredients, flatbreads can be made quickly and are often seen in places where leavening agents are costly or unavailable.

Cultural Practices

In some cultures, flatbread is used to scoop food, making it an essential utensil, similar to how one might use a spoon or fork.
During family gatherings or feasts, flatbreads can be a communal food, encouraging people to share and enjoy food together.

Origin of 'flatbread'

The term 'flatbread' originated from the combination of 'flat' and 'bread', highlighting the characteristic of being flat and unleavened. Flatbreads have been a part of human diet for thousands of years, with evidence of their consumption dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. They have evolved into various forms and have become a versatile food item enjoyed worldwide.