Flavour: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the specific taste of food or drink and can also refer to the overall character or sensation something provides. Often used in cooking and food reviews.

• The ice cream has a rich chocolate flavour.
• This dish has a unique flavour that I have never tasted before.

Can describe the sensation perceived by the tongue when eating or drinking. Also used to describe personal preferences or experiences of trying something new.

• The soup has a very salty taste.
• She has excellent taste in music.

Primarily used to describe the pleasant smell of food, drinks, flowers, or sometimes other pleasant scents. Often used in contexts where smell is a prominent feature.

• The aroma of freshly baked bread filled the room.
• I love the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the morning.

Often used to describe the taste or smell of something, emphasizing the enjoyable aspect. It can also metaphorically refer to enjoying an experience fully. Can have a slightly less formal tone compared to 'flavour'.

• She savored the gourmet meal, enjoying every bite.
• He wanted to savor the moment of his victory.

Refers to the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially something abstract. Can also refer to concentrated extracts used in cooking and scents.

• The essence of the argument lies in the need for better education.
• Vanilla essence is often used in baking to enhance the flavor.

Use when enhancing or describing the taste of food or drink.

• She used vanilla extract to flavour the cake
• This soup has a nice, rich flavour

Use when adding salt, herbs, or spices to food to enhance its flavor, often done during cooking.

• Remember to season the steak with salt and pepper
• She always seasons her pasta sauce with basil

Use when adding or enhancing the taste of food with spices or when making something more interesting or exciting.

• They spiced the curry with turmeric and cumin
• She decided to spice up the presentation with some humor

Use when adding a pleasant smell to something, often related to culinary or perfumery contexts.

• Chefs often aromatize dishes with herbs and spices
• The room was aromatized with lavender oil

Use when soaking a substance in liquid to extract flavors or properties, typically in culinary, medicinal, or aromatic applications.

• Let the tea leaves infuse in hot water for five minutes
• She chose to infuse the oil with garlic