Oatmeal: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in everyday speech to refer to a breakfast food made from oats. It can be plain or flavored, and is often cooked with water or milk.

• I have oatmeal with honey for breakfast every morning.
• She prefers her oatmeal with a bit of cinnamon.

Typically used to refer to a thicker, more hearty dish made from boiling oats or other grains. It can be sweet or savory and is similar to but often thicker than oatmeal.

• He enjoys a bowl of porridge with fruits for breakfast.
• Porridge is a traditional dish in many cultures.

Generally used to refer to the raw or whole grains before they are cooked into oatmeal or other dishes. Also commonly used when talking about the health benefits of oats.

• Oats are a great source of fiber and essential nutrients.
• She added some oats to her smoothie for extra nutrition.

Often used to describe a thin, watery food made from boiling grains in water or milk. It has a negative connotation and is associated with meager, unappetizing meals.

• During the famine, all the villagers had to eat was thin gruel.
• In the old tales, orphans were often fed gruel.