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Gherkin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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gherkin

[หˆษกษœห.kษชn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

pickled cucumbers

A gherkin is a small variety of cucumber that is typically pickled in vinegar or brine. Gherkins are often used as a condiment or as a snack.

Synonyms

cucumber, pickle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gherkin

Commonly used in British English to refer to small pickled cucumbers.

  • I love adding gherkins to my sandwiches for an extra crunch.
  • The plate of appetizers included tiny gherkins.
pickle

Refers broadly to any vegetable or fruit that has been preserved in vinegar or brine, but often used for pickled cucumbers in American English.

  • He put a pickle on his burger for extra flavor.
  • Pickles are often served as a side dish with sandwiches.
cucumber

Used to refer to the fresh vegetable, typically in salads or as a snack.

  • She sliced a cucumber for the salad.
  • Cucumbers are refreshing to eat on a hot day.

Examples of usage

  • The sandwich was topped with slices of gherkin.
  • She enjoyed eating gherkins straight out of the jar.
Context #2 | Noun

British English

In British English, a gherkin refers to a small, sweet variety of cucumber. These gherkins are often used in salads or as a side dish.

Synonyms

cucumber, pickle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
gherkin

This word is commonly used in British English to refer to small cucumbers that are typically pickled in vinegar or brine.

  • Would you like a gherkin in your sandwich?
  • I love the tangy flavor of gherkins.
cucumber

This term is universally used for the fresh, green vegetable that is often eaten raw in salads or sandwiches.

  • I added some cucumber slices to my salad.
  • Cucumber is very refreshing in summer.
pickle

This word generally refers to cucumbers that have been pickled, often used in American English. It can also refer to other vegetables that have been preserved in vinegar or brine. It may have a negative connotation when referring to a difficult situation ('in a pickle').

  • Could you pass me the jar of pickles?
  • We have dill pickles and sweet pickles in the fridge.
  • I'm in a bit of a pickle with my homework.

Examples of usage

  • She added diced gherkins to the potato salad.
  • The burger was served with a side of gherkins.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Gherkins are popular in various cuisines, often found in sandwiches, salads, and as a staple in charcuterie boards.
  • They are commonly used to make tartar sauce, enhancing flavors in dishes like fish and chips.
  • In Germany, gherkins are traditionally served with sausages and can be a key ingredient in potato salads.

Pop Culture

  • Gherkins often appear in cartoons and films as the quintessential side for burgers and picnic scenes.
  • There are even quirky songs and stories aimed at children that feature gherkins as fun characters.
  • A popular social media trend involves people sharing creative recipes and challenges using gherkins, showcasing their versatility.

Health

  • Low in calories and high in antioxidants, gherkins can be a healthy, crunchy snack option.
  • Fermented gherkins contain probiotics, which can support digestion and gut health.
  • They are a source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health and proper blood clotting.

Farming & Agriculture

  • Gherkins are typically harvested when they are still immature, leading to their small size and crunchy texture.
  • They're cultivated in many countries, with pickling varieties especially grown in regions like Europe and North America.
  • The process of pickling gherkins has been a part of global culinary tradition for centuries, preserving them for long-term use.

Origin of 'gherkin'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gherkin' comes from the Dutch word 'gurken', which means 'cucumber'.
  • This little vegetable is sometimes called a 'cornichon' in French, referring to its pickled form.
  • The name has roots tracing back to the Middle Ages when cucumbers were first cultivated in Europe.

The word 'gherkin' originated from the Dutch word 'gurken', which means cucumber. It was later adopted into English. Gherkins have been a popular food item for centuries, particularly in pickled form. The use of gherkins as a condiment or snack has made them a familiar and well-loved food in many cultures.

See also: gherkins.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,629, 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.