Grocery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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grocery

[หˆษกroสŠsษ™ri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

shopping list

groceries are food and other goods that are sold by a grocer or supermarket. They include fresh produce, canned goods, dairy products, and household items.

Synonyms

food, provisions, supplies.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grocery

Commonly used to refer to a shop where food and other household items are sold or the items purchased from such a shop.

  • I need to stop by the grocery to pick up some milk.
  • She works at the local grocery.
food

General term for any substance consumed to provide nutritional support for the body.

  • We need to buy some food for the party.
  • I'm cooking food for dinner.

Examples of usage

  • We need to buy groceries for the week.
  • She filled her cart with groceries for the party.
Context #2 | Noun

grocery store

a grocery is also a store that sells food and other goods. It is usually smaller than a supermarket and may specialize in certain types of products.

Synonyms

corner shop, food store, market.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
grocery

Commonly refers to a store that sells a wide range of food items and household goods. It's a general term used for both small and large stores where people buy everyday necessities.

  • I need to go to the grocery to buy some milk and bread
food store

A broad term for any store that specializes in selling food products. This can include larger supermarkets, specialty stores, or smaller markets.

  • We went to the food store to pick up fresh vegetables for our dinner
market

Usually refers to a place where multiple vendors sell various items, often including fresh produce, meats, and sometimes crafts. Markets can be open-air or within buildings and are often seen as more traditional or community-centered spaces.

  • Every Saturday, we visit the market to buy fresh fruits and see local artisans
corner shop

Often a small, local store located in residential neighborhoods. These shops typically offer a limited selection of essential items and are convenient for quick purchases.

  • I'm just heading to the corner shop to get some snacks for the movie tonight

Examples of usage

  • I prefer to shop at the local grocery for fresh produce.
  • The grocery on the corner is convenient for last-minute items.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Grocery stores are often community gathering spots where people meet and socialize while shopping.
  • In many cultures, grocery stores showcase local foods, helping to preserve culinary traditions and regional specialties.
  • Farmersโ€™ markets offer a more personalized grocery shopping experience, connecting consumers directly with local producers.

Economic Impact

  • The grocery sector plays a significant role in the economy, employing millions and influencing supply chains worldwide.
  • Online grocery shopping has surged, especially after the pandemic, changing how consumers access food and household items.
  • Sustainability practices in grocery stores, like reducing plastic use and sourcing local produce, are becoming more common.

Health and Nutrition

  • Grocery stores are increasingly emphasizing healthy foods, offering more organic and plant-based options to cater to health-conscious shoppers.
  • Public health initiatives often encourage increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, making grocery choices pivotal in nutrition.
  • Labeling in grocery stores helps consumers make healthier choices by providing nutritional information and ingredient lists.

Psychology

  • Shopping in grocery stores can trigger emotional reactions, hunting for sales may release dopamine, akin to a reward system.
  • Layouts of grocery stores are designed to maximize shopping time; for example, fresh produce is often placed at the entrance to entice customers.
  • Impulse buying is common in grocery stores, particularly near checkout aisles where candy and snacks are displayed.

Literature and Media

  • Many novels and films feature scenes set in grocery stores, symbolizing everyday life and human interactions.
  • Cookbooks often reference grocery shopping as the first step in creating a meal, highlighting the importance of fresh ingredients.
  • Documentaries exploring food systems frequently include grocery stores as vital components of the agricultural and economic landscape.

Origin of 'grocery'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'grocery' comes from the Middle French word 'grossier,' which means a wholesaler or dealer in goods.
  • It originally referred to a store that sold bulk goods and dry groceries, with fresh produce being a later addition.
  • The word has evolved, and now it broadly encompasses all types of food and household items sold in retail.

The term 'grocery' originated from the Middle English word 'grosserie' which meant a wholesale grocer's shop. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to both the goods sold by a grocer and the store itself. The concept of grocery stores dates back to ancient times, with markets and merchants selling food and provisions. Today, groceries are an essential part of daily life, providing a wide variety of food and household items for consumers.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,436 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.