Prawn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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prawn
[prɔːn ]
Definitions
seafood dish
A prawn is a small shellfish that is similar to a shrimp. Prawns are often cooked and served as a delicious seafood dish.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prawn |
Commonly used in British English to refer to larger shrimp-like seafood, often in culinary contexts.
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| shrimp |
Commonly used in American English and generally refers to smaller-sized individuals of this seafood category. Often used in culinary contexts.
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| crustacean |
Used in scientific and academic contexts to refer to a broad category of shellfish, including shrimp, crabs, and lobsters.
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Examples of usage
- I ordered a plate of grilled prawns for dinner.
- The prawns were seasoned with garlic and butter.
British English
In British English, 'prawn' is the common term for what Americans call a shrimp.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prawn |
Used primarily in British English and other Commonwealth countries. Prawns are typically larger and can be found in both freshwater and saltwater. This term is often used in culinary contexts, especially in restaurants and seafood dishes.
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| shrimp |
Common in American English. Shrimp are usually smaller and are found mostly in saltwater. The term is widely used in casual and everyday conversation when referring to seafood. It can be used both in culinary contexts and within general discussions about marine life.
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Examples of usage
- In the UK, fish and chips often come with breaded prawns.
- She prefers prawn cocktail over shrimp cocktail.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Culinary
- In many cultures, prawns are considered a delicacy and are often served grilled, fried, or in soups.
- The dish 'shrimp cocktail,' which features cooked prawns, became popular in the 1960s.
Biology
- Prawns possess a hard outer shell, known as an exoskeleton, which they shed during a process called molting to grow.
- They are part of the crustacean family, which also includes crabs and lobsters, and can thrive in both salt and freshwater.
Economics
- Prawn farming has become a significant industry in countries like Thailand and Vietnam, providing jobs and boosting local economies.
- Global trade in prawns is a multi-billion dollar industry, making them one of the most sought-after seafood products.
Environmental Concerns
- Prawn farming can lead to habitat destruction, notably the clearing of mangroves, which are crucial for coastal ecosystems.
- Sustainable seafood certifications aim to address the environmental impacts of prawn fisheries and farming practices.
Cultural Significance
- In many Asian cuisines, such as Thai and Chinese, prawns are often included in festive dishes and symbolize good luck and prosperity.
- Dishes like 'prawn biryani' in South Asia showcase the versatility of this seafood ingredient in various culinary traditions.
Origin of 'prawn'
The word 'prawn' originated from the Middle English word 'prane', which came from the Old French word 'piraun'. The term 'prawn' has been used for centuries to refer to various species of small shellfish, particularly in the context of seafood cuisine.