Homogenized: meaning, definitions and examples

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homogenized

 

[həˈmɒdʒənaɪzd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

food processing

Homogenized refers to a process in which a substance, usually liquid, is made uniform in composition. This is often applied to milk to break down fat molecules, ensuring a consistent texture and taste. The process prevents cream from rising and separates, which enhances the product's shelf life.

Synonyms

consistent, standardized, uniform.

Examples of usage

  • Homogenized milk has a smooth texture.
  • The chef preferred using homogenized cream for desserts.
  • Many drink brands use homogenized ingredients for consistency.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term originated from the Greek word 'homos,' meaning 'same,' and 'genesis,' meaning 'to create.'
  • It was first used in the 19th century in scientific contexts related to milk processing.

Science

  • Homogenization is crucial in the dairy industry to prevent the cream from separating and staying mixed.
  • The process typically involves forcing milk through tiny openings under high pressure, breaking down fat molecules.
  • Besides dairy, homogenization is applied in the food industry to improve the texture of sauces, mayonnaise, and other emulsions.

Technology

  • Modern homogenization techniques include high-pressure homogenizers, which are used in various industries from pharmaceuticals to cosmetics.
  • Digital homogenization refers to blending various data sets or formats into a single cohesive system, important in big data analytics.

Culture

  • In a broader cultural context, homogenization can refer to the blending of cultures, often leading to a loss of diversity.
  • The term 'cultural homogenization' is commonly used to describe how globalization affects local customs and practices.

Literature

  • Writers often discuss the dangers of homogenized cultures in dystopian novels, warning against a loss of individuality.
  • Themes of homogenization appear frequently in postmodern literature, exploring the tension between local and global identities.

Translations

Translations of the word "homogenized" in other languages:

🇵🇹 homogeneizado

🇮🇳 समरूपित

🇩🇪 homogenisiert

🇮🇩 homogen

🇺🇦 гомогенізований

🇵🇱 homogenizowany

🇯🇵 均質化された

🇫🇷 homogénéisé

🇪🇸 homogeneizado

🇹🇷 homojenize edilmiş

🇰🇷 균질화된

🇸🇦 مُتجانَس

🇨🇿 homogenizovaný

🇸🇰 homogenizovaný

🇨🇳 均质化的

🇸🇮 homogeniziran

🇮🇸 hómogeniseruð

🇰🇿 гомогенизацияланған

🇬🇪 ჰომოგენიზებული

🇦🇿 homogenləşdirilmiş

🇲🇽 homogeneizado

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,046, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.