Homogenized: meaning, definitions and examples
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homogenized
[həˈmɒdʒənaɪzd ]
Definition
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.
- ...
- 22043 mirage
- 22044 rabid
- 22045 comprehensiveness
- 22046 homogenized
- 22047 thallium
- 22048 horrifying
- 22049 cottonwood
- ...