Meatless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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meatless

[ˈmiːtləs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

food

Not containing or consisting of meat; plant-based

Synonyms

plant-based, vegan, vegetarian.

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Word Description / Examples
meatless

Used to describe meals or dishes that do not contain meat. It can be used in various contexts, including temporary diets, single meals, or part of a bigger lifestyle.

  • I'm having a meatless pasta tonight.
  • The cafeteria offers meatless options every Monday.

Examples of usage

  • Many people choose a meatless diet for ethical reasons.
  • The restaurant offers a variety of delicious meatless options.
Context #2 | Adjective

day

Having no meat on a particular day, especially for religious or cultural reasons

Examples of usage

  • Fridays are meatless for Catholics during Lent.
  • Some cultures have meatless Mondays.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Health

  • Studies suggest that meatless diets can lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
  • Plant-based meals have been shown to be rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for overall health.
  • Diets without meat often include a variety of beans, lentils, and whole grains, providing essential protein sources.

Environmental Impact

  • Meatless diets require less water and land, making them more sustainable compared to meat-heavy diets.
  • Reducing meat consumption significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions associated with animal farming.
  • Eating plant-based can help preserve biodiversity, as livestock farming often leads to habitat destruction.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Many cultures have traditional meatless dishes, such as Indian vegetarian curries or Italian pasta primavera.
  • In some religions, like Hinduism and Buddhism, vegetarianism is practiced as a form of spirituality and respect for life.
  • The increasing number of vegan festivals worldwide highlights the growing acceptance and celebration of meatless lifestyles.

Pop Culture

  • Celebrity chefs and influencers promote meatless cooking, often sharing innovative plant-based recipes on social media.
  • Documentaries and films, like 'Forks Over Knives', have raised awareness about the benefits of eating less meat.
  • Meatless meals are becoming trendy in restaurants, with many offering dedicated vegetarian or vegan menus.

Origin of 'meatless'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'meat' comes from the Old English word 'mete', which originally meant food in general, not just animal flesh.
  • The word 'less' has roots in Old English as well, meaning a smaller amount or without something.
  • Combining 'meat' with 'less' gives a clear idea of meals without meat, a concept that has grown in popularity.

The term 'meatless' originated in the early 20th century as a way to describe food that does not contain meat. With the rise of vegetarianism and veganism, the concept of meatless meals has become more popular in recent years as a healthier and more sustainable alternative to meat-based diets.


See also: meat, meaty.