Pork Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pork

[pɔːk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food

Meat from a pig, typically used as food. Pork is a popular choice for many dishes due to its flavor and versatility. It can be cooked in various ways such as grilled, roasted, or fried.

Synonyms

hog flesh, pig meat, swine flesh.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pork

Commonly used in everyday conversation and cooking to refer to meat from a pig. Suitable for general discussions about food or recipes.

  • I'm going to cook some pork chops for dinner tonight.
  • Pork is often used in traditional barbecue dishes.
pig meat

Less common and can sound informal or non-technical. Sometimes used for clarity in distinguishing between different types of meat.

  • Pig meat is often used in sausages.
  • The market had different sections for beef, chicken, and pig meat.
swine flesh

Very uncommon and can appear in scientific or agricultural contexts. It can have an old-fashioned or formal tone.

  • Swine flesh was mentioned in the ancient dietary laws.
  • The biologist conducted a study on the nutritional value of swine flesh.
hog flesh

Rarely used in modern language and might be found in historical texts or specific contexts like agriculture or butchery. Can sound outdated or scientific.

  • The farmer sold hog flesh to the local markets in the early 1900s.
  • Historical records detail how hog flesh was preserved during winters.

Examples of usage

  • Pulled pork sandwiches are a Southern delicacy.
  • She cooked the pork chops with apples for a delicious dinner.
  • We decided to have pork ribs for our barbecue.
  • The recipe called for ground pork in the meatballs.
  • The pork loin was marinated and then baked to perfection.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

Informal term used to describe money or wealth. The term 'pork' is often used in business or political contexts to refer to funds or financial resources.

Synonyms

funds, money, wealth.

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Word Description / Examples
pork

When used in a political context, it refers to government spending for localized projects secured solely or primarily to bring money to a representative's district. Generally, carries a negative connotation.

  • Critics argue that the bill is full of pork projects.
  • The senator was accused of pushing pork to benefit his own district.
money

A broad term used in everyday life to refer to currency or financial resources in general.

  • I need to save more money for my vacation.
  • He spends a lot of money on gadgets.
wealth

Refers to an abundance of valuable resources or material possessions and is often used when discussing overall financial status or prosperity.

  • His wealth increased significantly after the company went public.
  • She donated a portion of her wealth to charity.
funds

Used in the context of finances, particularly when discussing allocated or available money for specific purposes such as projects or investments.

  • The charity needs more funds to continue its work.
  • They secured funds to start the new business.

Examples of usage

  • The company received a government grant, adding more pork to their budget.
  • He was accused of using his position for pork-barrel spending.
  • The politician promised to cut unnecessary pork from the budget.
  • The project was criticized for being filled with pork and unnecessary expenses.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, pork is a staple food, especially in regions like East Asia and the Southern United States.
  • The consumption of pork is often linked to various cultural celebrations, such as holiday feasts and traditional dishes.
  • Certain religions, like Islam and Judaism, prohibit the consumption of pork, emphasizing cultural diversity in dietary practices.

Nutrition

  • Pork is a rich source of protein and essential vitamins, including B vitamins, which support energy and metabolism.
  • Cuts of pork vary in fat content; lean cuts can be a healthy option for balanced diets.
  • Processed pork products, like bacon and sausages, can be high in sodium and preservatives, which is important to consider for heart health.

Culinary Uses

  • Pork can be prepared in numerous ways, including roasting, grilling, and smoking, which enhances its flavor.
  • Popular dishes featuring pork include barbecue ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, and schnitzels from various culinary traditions.
  • Different regions have numerous unique recipes, from spicy chorizo in Spain to sweet and sour pork in Chinese cuisine.

Historical Context

  • The domestication of pigs dates back to around 4000 BC, showing their long history with humans.
  • In ancient Rome, pork was a favored food among the wealthy, reflecting social status and culinary sophistication.
  • During the Middle Ages, farmers became adept at breeding pigs, making pork a significant part of the European diet.

Origin of 'pork'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pork' comes from the Latin word 'porcus,' which means pig.
  • In Middle English, the term 'pork' was often written as 'porc,' demonstrating a transition in language over time.
  • French influence on English brought the term 'pork' into common use, reflecting the agricultural practices of medieval Europe.

The word 'pork' originated from the Old French word 'porc' which meant pig. It eventually evolved into the Middle English word 'pork' as it referred to the meat of a pig. Pork has been a staple in many cuisines around the world for centuries, valued for its flavor and versatility in cooking.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,530 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.