Ham Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ham
[hæm ]
Definitions
food
The meat from the upper part of a pig's leg salted and dried or smoked.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ham |
Used to refer to the cured leg of pork. Often used in sandwiches, salads, and holiday meals.
|
| pork |
Refers to the meat from a pig in general. Used in a wide range of dishes, especially in roasting, grilling, or stewing.
|
| bacon |
Thinly sliced, smoked, and cured meat from the pig's belly. Commonly served at breakfast or as a topping on various dishes.
|
| sausage |
Ground meat, usually pork, mixed with various spices and herbs, encased in a skin. Commonly served at breakfast, in casseroles, or as a main dish.
|
Examples of usage
- Would you like some ham on your sandwich?
- She ordered a ham and cheese omelette for breakfast.
- He bought a whole ham to cook for the family dinner.
informal
Overacting or exaggerated behavior.
Synonyms
exaggerate, mug, overact.
Examples of usage
- He was accused of hamming it up during the play.
- She always brings humor to the role without being too hammy.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary History
- The process of curing ham dates back thousands of years, with ancient civilizations preserving meat by salting.
- In the United States, ham became popular as an affordable source of protein, especially during the Great Depression.
- Different regions produce unique types of ham, like Prosciutto from Italy or Jamón Ibérico from Spain, each with distinct flavors.
Cultural Significance
- In many countries, ham is a traditional dish served during holidays, symbolizing prosperity and joy.
- Some cultures have unique ways of enjoying ham, such as serving it with pineapples in Hawaiian-style dishes.
- Ham is often featured in celebratory meals, making it a part of family traditions during gatherings.
Animal Husbandry
- Pigs are known for their intelligence, and various breeds are raised specifically for high-quality ham production.
- Sustainable farming practices are becoming more common, as consumers show interest in how their food is produced.
- The feed and care pigs receive can significantly affect the flavor and quality of the ham they produce.
Pop Culture
- In cartoons and movies, characters often comically crave ham, showcasing its status as a beloved food.
- Haute cuisine has even made space for gourmet preparations of ham, elevating a simple meat to fine dining menus.
- Phrases like 'ham it up' refer to exaggerated acting, highlighting how the word 'ham' has taken on a life of its own in language.
Health and Nutrition
- Ham is a source of protein and essential vitamins but can also be high in sodium, which is important to consider for health.
- Different types of ham provide varying nutrients; for example, prosciutto has less fat than some other cured meats.
- Today, many producers focus on offering healthier, lower-sodium options for consumers.
Origin of 'ham'
The word 'ham' originated from the Old English word 'hamm', which referred to the back of the knee or the bend of the knee. Over time, it came to be associated with the meat from the upper part of a pig's leg. The term 'ham' has been used in the English language for centuries, becoming a popular food item and a metaphor for overacting in theatrical performances.
Word Frequency Rank
Position #9,965 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.
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