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Fleshy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fleshy

[ˈflɛʃi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

texture description

The word 'fleshy' refers to something that is soft and plump, often resembling flesh. This term is typically used to describe the physical characteristics of fruits, vegetables, or even body parts that are full of tissue. In a broader context, it can also imply a rich or abundant quality. For example, a fleshy fruit may have a soft and juicy texture, while a person described as fleshy might have a rounded figure.

Synonyms

juicy, plump, rich, soft, tender.

Examples of usage

  • The fleshy tomato was ripe and ready to eat.
  • She admired the fleshy leaves of the succulent plant.
  • The artist depicted a fleshy figure in his sculpture.
  • He preferred fleshy steaks over lean cuts of meat.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • In plants, 'fleshy' often describes fruits that are juicy and soft, like peaches and tomatoes, which attract animals for seed dispersal.
  • In the animal kingdom, certain creatures, like amphibians, have fleshy skins that can absorb moisture from their surroundings.
  • Fleshy tissues play a key role in various biological processes, such as providing energy reserves and facilitating movement.

Culinary Arts

  • Fleshy parts of fruits and vegetables are often sought after in cooking for their flavor and texture, making dishes more appealing.
  • Chefs might use the word 'fleshy' to describe meats that have a lot of tenderness and juiciness, which enhances the dining experience.
  • Foods described as fleshy, like avocados, are prized for their creamy texture and nutritional benefits.

Art and Literature

  • Fleshy imagery often appears in art and literature to evoke feelings of abundance and sensuality.
  • The word appears frequently in poems to describe the beauty of life and nature, connecting softness with emotional experiences.
  • In classic literature, characters are sometimes described as 'fleshy' to depict richness in body and personality.

Psychology

  • Psychological studies suggest that the perception of fleshy, soft textures can evoke comfort and warmth in individuals.
  • People often associate softness and fleshiness with feelings of safety and nurturing, influencing preferences in design and art.
  • Color and texture, including fleshy attributes, can impact mood and emotional responses in individuals, reflecting psychological effects of sensory experiences.

Origin of 'fleshy'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Old English word 'flesc', meaning meat or flesh.
  • First known use of 'fleshy' dates back to the 14th century, indicating its long-standing presence in the English language.
  • The word has evolved to describe not just meat but also soft and thick parts of plants or other substances.

The word 'fleshy' originates from the Middle English word 'flesh', which comes from the Old English 'flǣsc', meaning 'flesh, fleshly body'. The adjective form 'fleshy' developed in English to describe something resembling or composed of flesh. Historically, 'flesh' has been a term used to denote the soft substance that makes up the body of an organism, particularly in animals. The use of the suffix '-y' to create 'fleshy' implies a characteristic quality of abundance or softness associated with flesh. Over the centuries, 'fleshy' has been adopted in various contexts, ranging from culinary descriptions to metaphorical uses in literature, emphasizing qualities of richness, texture, and abundance. Its applications have also extended to botany in the description of fruits and plants that have thick, soft parts.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,165, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.