Pulverized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pulverized

[ˈpʌl.vər.aɪzd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

food preparation

Pulverized refers to a state of being reduced to fine particles or powder. Often used in cooking and food processing, an ingredient described as pulverized has been ground down to such a minimal size that it becomes almost intangible. This technique can enhance flavors, facilitate mixing, and improve texture in various culinary dishes. It's commonly applied to spices, grains, and some fruits, resulting in a concentrated form that may intensify the overall taste.

Synonyms

crushed, ground, powdered.

Examples of usage

  • The spices were pulverized to enhance the flavor.
  • She pulverized the almonds to make almond flour.
  • The chef pulverized the herbs before adding them to the sauce.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Pulverization is a key step in various scientific processes, such as creating powdered metals for use in 3D printing.
  • In food science, pulverizing can enhance flavor release from spices and herbs by breaking down their cell structures.
  • Pharmaceuticals often employ pulverization to create finer drug particles for better absorption in the body.

Culinary Arts

  • In cooking, ingredients like spices are sometimes pulverized to create a more potent flavor, as seen in curry powders.
  • Pulverized ingredients are often used in baking, such as in the preparation of powdered sugar or almond flour.
  • The texture of food influences its taste; pulverizing can change the way flavors are experienced in dishes.

Environmental Science

  • Pulverization of waste materials can help in recycling processes by reducing the size of recyclables for easier processing.
  • In soil management, pulverizing soil can improve aeration and water retention, promoting healthier plant growth.
  • Some strategies in sustainable agriculture involve pulverizing crop residues to return nutrients back to the soil.

Art and Craft

  • Artists may pulverize pigments to create fine powders for paints, enhancing color richness and application.
  • Many craft materials, like charcoal, are pulverized to achieve the desired consistency for drawing or painting.
  • Pulverization is also seen in natural dye processes, where plant materials are ground for color extraction.

Origin of 'pulverized'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'pulverizare', meaning 'to reduce to dust'.
  • It was first used in the English language in the late 14th century, often in the context of grinding substances.
  • Related words include 'pulver' (dust), which reflects the transformation into fine particles.

The term 'pulverize' originates from the Latin word 'pulvis,' meaning dust or powder. The transformation into the English language occurred in the late 15th century, with the word initially used in a more general sense to describe the act of reducing something to fine particles. Over time, its usage expanded to various fields including pharmacology, chemistry, and culinary arts. The introduction of industrial grinding processes during the 19th century also contributed to the broader understanding and application of the term. Ultimately, 'pulverized' has come to describe not just the physical state of a material but also its enhanced utility in recipes, pharmaceuticals, and other areas where texture and consistency are crucial.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,807, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.