Onion bulb Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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onion bulb

[ˈʌnjən bʌlb ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

vegetable

An onion bulb is the rounded underground part of the onion plant, consisting of concentric layers of fleshy leaves and used as a vegetable in cooking.

Synonyms

bulb onion, common onion, onion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
onion bulb	This is a duplicate entry and should be avoided to reduce confusion.
onion	This is the most general and widely used term, suitable for everyday conversation and cooking. It requires no special context or explanation. Chop the onion finely for the soup. I bought a bag of onions from the market.
bulb onion	This term is also more technical, likely to be used by gardeners or in agricultural contexts to specify the type of onion that forms a bulb. Bulb onions are stored in a cool, dry place to prevent sprouting. Planting bulb onions in the fall can yield an early spring harvest.
common onion	Use 'common onion' when you want to differentiate this type from other varieties or species of onions, like green onions or shallots. It is a bit more formal. The common onion is a staple in many kitchens worldwide. Unlike the common onion, green onions have a milder taste.

Examples of usage

The recipe calls for one finely chopped onion bulb.
She sautéed the onion bulb until it was caramelized.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

Onions have been cultivated for over 5,000 years and were one of the first vegetables to be grown by humans.
Ancient Egyptians valued onions highly, often placing them in tombs as offerings for the afterlife.
The ancient Greeks believed onions gave strength to athletes and used them for energy during competitions.

Pop Culture

Onions are featured in numerous idiomatic expressions, such as 'peeling back the layers' to suggest uncovering hidden truths.
In children's entertainment, cartoon characters often exaggerate reactions to cutting onions, contributing to the humor in shows and movies.
The vegetable has been spotlighted in popular songs, like 'Onion Song' by the legendary band The Beatles.

Science

Onions belong to the Allium family, which also includes garlic, leeks, and chives, all known for their distinct flavors and health benefits.
They contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
When sliced, onions release sulfur compounds that irritate our eyes and cause tears, a natural defense mechanism.

Culinary Uses

Onions are one of the 'holy trinity' of cooking in many cuisines, pairing with garlic and bell peppers to form the flavor base in many dishes.
They can be eaten raw in salads, cooked until sweet, or caramelized for a rich taste.
Different varieties, like red, white, and yellow onions, offer unique flavors and are used in various cooking styles around the world.

Nutrition

Onions are low in calories but rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
They have been associated with various health benefits, including potentially lowering cholesterol and improving blood sugar levels.
The phytochemicals found in onions may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, making them a nutritious addition to meals.

Origin of 'onion bulb'

The word "onion" originated from the Latin word "unio" which means single or one, referring to the single bulb. Onions have been cultivated for over 5,000 years and have been used for culinary and medicinal purposes. They are known for their pungent smell and flavor, as well as their health benefits.