Mouthwater Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mouthwater
[ˈmaʊθˌwɔːtə ]
Definitions
description of food or drink
Causing an involuntary flow of saliva in anticipation of eating or drinking something delicious.
Synonyms
appetizing, delicious, tempting.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| appetizing |
This word is suitable for describing food that stimulates your appetite. It is often used to refer to food that looks or smells appealing.
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| delicious |
This word is best used when you want to describe food that tastes very good.
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| tempting |
Use this word when talking about food that looks so good that you want to eat it, even if you weren't hungry. It can also have a negative connotation if it suggests overindulgence.
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Examples of usage
- The smell of freshly baked cookies is so mouthwatering.
- The restaurant's menu is full of mouthwater dishes.
expression of desire or anticipation
To make someone feel very eager or excited about something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mouthwater |
Typically used to describe food that looks or smells very delicious, making you want to eat it immediately.
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| entice |
Used when something is very attractive or tempting, often leading someone to do something they might not otherwise do.
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| stimulate |
Used when something causes increased activity or energy, either mental or physical, often in a more formal or scientific context.
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| excite |
Refers to something that causes a strong feeling of enthusiasm or eagerness, not limited to food.
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Examples of usage
- The new movie trailer really mouthwatered me to watch the film.
- The upcoming concert is mouthwatering music fans around the world.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that visual and olfactory cues can trigger the salivary glands, making people crave food even when they are not hungry.
- Anticipation of delicious food can release dopamine, a feel-good chemical in the brain, enhancing the desire to eat.
Culinary Arts
- Chefs often use presentation techniques to create 'mouthwatering' dishes that entice diners both visually and through aroma.
- Certain spices and cooking methods, like roasting, can enhance fragrances that are particularly 'mouthwatering'.
Pop Culture
- Movies and shows often depict characters having 'mouthwatering' reactions to food, emphasizing relatable pleasure in eating.
- Food competitions frequently highlight 'mouthwatering' dishes as a basis for judging creativity and taste.
Health and Nutrition
- Healthy foods can also be made 'mouthwatering' through clever seasoning and presentation, encouraging better eating habits.
- Understanding flavor profiles helps nutritionists create meals that are both healthy and enticing to eat.
Origin of 'mouthwater'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'mouth' and 'water', suggesting that something is so appealing it makes saliva build up.
- First recorded use of the phrase was in the late 19th century, referring specifically to food that looks or smells delicious.
The term 'mouthwater' comes from the combination of 'mouth' and 'water', depicting the physiological response of salivation triggered by the anticipation of something delicious. The concept of mouthwatering food or experiences has been ingrained in human culture for centuries, with various cuisines and events designed to evoke this sensory reaction.
See also: badmouth, mouth, mouthful, mouthparts, mouthpiece, mouthwatering.