Meat: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for edible animal tissue, commonly used in everyday conversation and cooking.

• I like to eat meat for dinner
• The recipe calls for two pounds of meat

Usually used in a more literary or scientific context to describe the soft tissue of both humans and animals. It can have a slightly negative or eerie connotation.

• The book described the creature’s flesh in vivid detail
• The flesh of the fruit is soft and juicy

Used in both nutritional and scientific contexts to refer to nutrients found in food, which include meat. Commonly used in discussions about diet and health.

• I need to add more protein to my diet
• Meat is a good source of protein

Refers specifically to the meat from cows. Commonly used in grocery shopping, cooking, and dining.

• I bought some beef for the barbecue
• She makes a great beef stew

Used to refer to the substance or the most important part of something, often in discussions or writings.

• The meat of the argument centers around this point.
• We need to get to the meat of the issue.

Refers to the intrinsic nature or indispensable quality of something, especially when talking about abstract concepts or philosophical discussions.

• The essence of his theory is simplicity.
• She captured the essence of the experience in her writing.

Commonly used to describe the central or innermost part of something, both literally and figuratively. Often used in scientific or technical contexts.

• We need to find the core of the problem.
• The core of the Earth consists of molten rock.

Often used metaphorically to talk about the central, most vital part of something, or to express the human aspect or emotion within a situation.

• The heart of the city is its people.
• The heart of his message was love and compassion.

Typically used to refer to animal flesh that is eaten as food. It is often used when discussing cooking, dietary preferences, or meals.

• The chef prepared a delicious meat stew for dinner.
• I don't eat meat because I am a vegetarian.

Refers to sitting or lying in a relaxed or lazy way. It is often used when someone is being leisurely, typically indoors.

• I like to lounge on the couch and read a book on Sundays.
• They spent the whole day lounging by the pool.

Informal term used when someone wants to relax or take it easy. It can refer to both relaxing at home or in a casual setting with friends.

• Let's chill at my place and watch a movie.
• After a long week at work, I just want to chill this weekend.

Used when you spend time relaxing, talking, or doing casual activities with friends. It's often associated with social interactions.

• Do you want to hang out at the mall this afternoon?
• We usually hang out at the park when the weather is nice.