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Kibble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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kibble

[ˈkɪbəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

pet food

Kibble refers to dry pet food, typically in the form of small pellets. It is most commonly associated with dog and cat food. Kibble is formulated to provide a balanced diet and is often fortified with vitamins and minerals. Many pet owners prefer kibble for its convenience and longer shelf life compared to canned food.

Synonyms

crunchies, dry food, pellets.

Examples of usage

  • My dog prefers kibble over wet food.
  • We switched to a high-protein kibble for our cat.
  • Kibble can help maintain your pet's dental health.
  • It's important to choose kibble that meets your pet's nutritional needs.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Nutrition

  • Kibble is often fortified with vitamins and minerals to ensure pets receive balanced nutrition.
  • Unlike wet food, kibble promotes dental health by helping to reduce plaque build-up in pets.
  • Some kibble brands offer specific formulas for different life stages, like puppies or seniors, addressing their unique dietary needs.

Manufacturing

  • The process of making kibble involves cooking the ingredients under high pressure to create digestible pellets.
  • Extrusion cooking is a key method used to produce kibble, where ingredients are mixed, cooked, and forced through a die to shape them.

Cultural Impact

  • Kibble has become a staple in many households, significantly influencing how people view pet care and nutrition.
  • In recent years, the rise of grain-free and organic kibble reflects a growing trend towards healthier food options for pets.

Pet Care

  • Kibble can be served on its own or mixed with wet food to enhance flavor and texture for pets.
  • Portion control is important when feeding kibble to prevent overfeeding and obesity in pets.

Origin of 'kibble'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'kibble' dates back to the 19th century, originally referring to a small, rounded piece of food.
  • It is believed to stem from the Middle English word 'kibel', which means 'to cut' or 'to divide'.

The word 'kibble' has its origins in the 18th century, where it was used in Scotland to refer to small round balls, particularly of food. The term is derived from the Scots word 'kibble,' which means 'to cut or to break into small pieces.' Over time, the meaning evolved and began to be associated specifically with the prepared dry food for pets. As home pet ownership grew in the 20th century, so did the popularity of kibble as a convenient feeding option for dogs and cats. Manufacturers developed processes to create kibble that was nutritionally complete, leading to the formulation of various types and flavors of kibble found in stores today. The modern-day kibble has become a staple in many households due to its ease of storage and serving.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,292, 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.