Percolator Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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percolator
[ˈpərkəˌlātər ]
Definition
coffee making
A percolator is a type of brewing device that uses water to extract flavors from coffee grounds. It operates by boiling water in the bottom chamber, which then rises through a tube to the upper chamber where the coffee grounds are placed. The hot water seeps through the coffee, and the brewed coffee flows back down into the bottom. This process can be repeated multiple times to achieve a desired strength. Percolators were commonly used before drip coffee makers became popular.
Synonyms
brewer, coffee maker, coffee pot.
Examples of usage
- I brewed my morning coffee using a percolator.
- Many campers prefer percolators for making coffee outdoors.
- The percolator produced a rich and robust flavor.
- He inherited his grandmother's old percolator.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- The first percolator was patented in 1810, marking the beginning of a new era in coffee brewing.
- By the late 19th century, the percolator became increasingly popular as it allowed for a stronger coffee taste.
Pop Culture
- Percolators were a household staple in many American kitchens from the 1930s to the 1960s, often featured in movies and TV shows depicting family life.
- The sound of coffee percolating has been nostalgically referenced in various songs and films, evoking warmth and comfort.
Science
- The brewing process involves thermodynamics; as water heats up, it creates steam that forces the water up a tube and through the coffee grounds.
- Brewing temperature and time can influence the flavor, with ideal percolation typically occurring at about 200°F and for 5-10 minutes.
Psychology
- Many people find the smell of brewing coffee to be uplifting, associating it with comfort and productivity.
- The act of making coffee using a percolator can create a ritualistic experience, enhancing satisfaction and engagement in the day’s activities.
Origin of 'percolator'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'percolare', meaning 'to strain through', which directly relates to how it brews coffee.
- The term 'percolator' first appeared in English in the early 19th century, signifying an innovative shift in coffee-making methods.
The word 'percolator' comes from the Latin verb 'percolare', meaning 'to strain through'. The term has been used in English since the late 19th century to describe the brewing process that filters liquid through a porous substance to extract flavors. Initially associated with laboratory equipment for filtering liquids, the use of the term expanded to describe the popular coffee brewing method. By the early 20th century, percolators became widely available, evolving into various designs for home use. The process of percolation was a significant advancement in coffee brewing technology, introducing a consistent method for making coffee stronger compared to earlier brewing methods, such as boiling.