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Jello Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jello

[หˆdส’ษ›loสŠ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

food item

Jello is a famous gelatin dessert that is typically sweetened and flavored. It is made by dissolving gelatin in hot water and then cooling it to form a stable gel. Often consumed as a dessert or a snack, jello can be found in various flavors, including strawberry, raspberry, and lime. It is commonly served in molds or cups and can be eaten plain or with added fruits. Its vibrant colors and unique texture make it a popular choice, especially for children's parties and gatherings.

Synonyms

gelatin, gelatin dessert, jelly.

Examples of usage

  • She made a colorful jello dessert for the birthday party.
  • The children enjoyed digging into their jello cups at the picnic.
  • We used a mold to create fun shapes for the jello.
  • He added fresh fruit to his jello for extra flavor.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The concept of gelatin dates back to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, who used it in various dishes.
  • Jell-O was famously introduced to the American market in 1897, becoming a staple dessert for families.
  • The first Jell-O flavors included raspberry, strawberry, orange, and lemon.

Culinary Usage

  • Besides desserts, it's often used in salads, snacks, and even as a fun ingredient in cocktails.
  • It can be layered with fruits or whipped cream, making it a playful dish for events and parties.
  • Jello shots, which are made by adding alcohol, have gained cultural popularity in college parties.

Pop Culture

  • Jell-O has appeared in various TV shows and movies, often as a fun, quirky treatโ€”remember the iconic scene in 'The Simpsons'?
  • In the 1980s, the famous Jell-O pudding commercials featured comedian Bill Cosby, helping to cement it in American pop culture.
  • It is also known for its unique commercials featuring playful jingle and vibrant animations.

Science

  • Gelatin, the main ingredient, is derived from collagen, a protein found in animal skin and bones, making it a fascinating food science topic.
  • Scientists have studied fruit-flavored gelatin for its unique properties in food preservation and texture.
  • Jell-O demonstrates how temperature affects consistencyโ€”when heated, it melts, and when cooled, it solidifies.

Psychology

  • The wobbly nature of Jell-O can evoke feelings of nostalgia, reminding people of their childhood experiences with this fun dessert.
  • Colors play a significant role in how Jell-O is perceived and enjoyed, with different hues often associated with the flavors they represent.
  • The act of eating Jell-O is linked to pleasure due to its unique texture and playful experience.

Origin of 'jello'

The word 'jello' is derived from 'gelatin', which comes from the French word 'gรฉlatine', and ultimately from the Latin word 'gelatus', meaning 'frozen' or 'congealed'. The term 'jello' became a brand name in the United States in the late 19th century, specifically in 1897 when it was trademarked by the Jell-O Company. The product gained massive popularity in the early 20th century due to its convenience and the introduction of prepared mixes. It was especially marketed as an easy and fun dessert for families, finding its way into American culture through various recipes and occasions, including holidays, birthdays, and potlucks. Over the years, jello has evolved and has been featured in numerous culinary creations beyond just a simple dessert.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,485, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.