Preserves: meaning, definitions and examples

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preserves

[prɪˈzɜːrvz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

food storage

Preserves are jams, jellies, and other foods made with fruit preserved in sugar.

Synonyms

jams, jellies, marmalade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
preserves	Use this term when referring to fruit preserved with sugar, where pieces of the fruit are still visible and intact. Often made with whole fruit or large chunks. The homemade strawberry preserves are perfect on toast. She bought a jar of blueberry preserves from the farmer's market.
jams	This term is better when talking about fruit spreads where the fruit is crushed or mashed but still contains some small chunks or pieces. I love spreading raspberry jam on my morning pancakes. He decided to make homemade apricot jam.
jellies	Jellies are smooth and clear fruit spreads made from fruit juice with no small chunks or pieces of fruit. They have a firm, set texture. Grape jelly goes well with peanut butter in a sandwich. The kids prefer apple jelly on their toast.
marmalade	Most commonly associated with citrus fruits, marmalade contains pieces of fruit peel and has a slightly bitter taste along with sweetness. Orange marmalade is a traditional British breakfast spread. She added a dollop of lemon marmalade to her scone.

Examples of usage

Would you like some toast with your preserves?
She always makes delicious homemade preserves.
I prefer strawberry preserves over grape jelly.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

maintain

To preserve something means to maintain it in its original or existing state.

Synonyms

conserve, maintain, protect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
maintain	Used when keeping something in good condition or continuing to keep a particular state or level. It is important to maintain a balanced diet The company has managed to maintain its high standards of quality
conserve	Often used in the context of carefully using resources to avoid waste, can be used both for natural resources and more abstract resources like energy or time. We must conserve water during the drought He tries to conserve his energy for the marathon
protect	Used when describing the act of keeping someone or something safe from harm or damage. We need to protect our environment from pollution She always tries to protect her children from danger

Word

Description / Examples

maintain

Used when keeping something in good condition or continuing to keep a particular state or level.

It is important to maintain a balanced diet
The company has managed to maintain its high standards of quality

conserve

Often used in the context of carefully using resources to avoid waste, can be used both for natural resources and more abstract resources like energy or time.

We must conserve water during the drought
He tries to conserve his energy for the marathon

protect

Used when describing the act of keeping someone or something safe from harm or damage.

We need to protect our environment from pollution
She always tries to protect her children from danger

Examples of usage

We need to preserve these historical artifacts for future generations.
It is important to preserve natural habitats for wildlife conservation.

Interesting Facts

Culinary History

The practice of preserving food dates back to ancient civilizations, where drying and salting were common methods.
Fruit preserves became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, helping families to save fruits for winter.
Modern canning techniques were developed in the early 19th century by Nicolas Appert, leading to safer and longer-lasting preserves.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, making preserves is a traditional activity that often involves families gathering to share recipes and stories.
In the United States, fruit preserves are commonly used in southern cuisine, featuring in dishes like biscuits and gravy.
Certain preserves, like marmalade, are celebrated during special events and festivals, highlighting local fruits and traditions.

Science of Preservation

The sugar in preserves acts as a natural preservative by drawing moisture out of the fruit and inhibiting bacterial growth.
Preserving fruits helps retain vitamins and minerals, making them valuable for nutrition during off-seasons.
The process of canning creates a vacuum seal, preventing air from spoiling the food inside the jar.

Pop Culture

Preserves have appeared in literature and song, representing the idea of nostalgia and cherished moments.
The famous children's book 'The Tale of Peter Rabbit' features a scene where the rabbit steals preserves from a farmer's garden.
In modern cooking shows, making homemade preserves is often showcased as a fun and rewarding activity, bringing a sense of accomplishment.

Art and Craft

Jars of preserves are often used in home decor, symbolizing homemade goodness and country living.
Artisan preserves are now featured in craft fairs and farmer’s markets, showcasing creative flavors and unique blends made by local producers.
Labels and presentations for preserves have become a form of artistic expression, with many showcasing beautiful designs that highlight their flavor profiles.

Translations

Translations of the word "preserves" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conservas

🇮🇳 संरक्षित करता है

🇩🇪 Konserven

🇮🇩 pengawet

🇺🇦 консерви

🇵🇱 konserwy

🇯🇵 保存食

🇫🇷 conserves

🇪🇸 conservas

🇹🇷 konserve

🇰🇷 보존 식품

🇸🇦 محفوظات

🇨🇿 konzervy

🇸🇰 konzervy

🇨🇳 保存食

🇸🇮 konzervira

🇮🇸 niðursoðnar matvörur

🇰🇿 консервілер

🇬🇪 კონსერვები

🇦🇿 konservlər

🇲🇽 conservas

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,932 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.

...
9929 luminous
9930 multilateral
9931 artificially
9932 preserves
9933 dew
9934 dire
9935 sentimental
...