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Rasher: meaning, definitions and examples

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rasher

 

[ ˈræʃər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

food item

A rasher is a thin slice of bacon or ham, typically served as part of a breakfast. The term is commonly used in British cuisine and refers specifically to a slice that has been cured and smoked. In some contexts, it could also refer to a slice of other meats, but bacon is the most common usage. Rashers are usually cooked until crisp and are often enjoyed with eggs and toast.

Synonyms

slab, slice, strip

Examples of usage

  • I had a rasher of bacon with my eggs this morning.
  • She ordered a full English breakfast with two rashers.
  • The recipe calls for a rasher of ham in the salad.

Etymology

The word 'rasher' originates from the late 14th century, derived from the Old French word 'raser', which means 'to scrape or shave'. It was used to describe a thin slice of bacon or ham, emphasizing the method of preparation, where the meat is trimmed down to a smaller size. As culinary practices evolved, the term became more standardized within British English to denote specifically a slice of cured pork. The use of 'rasher' has also expanded in some regions to describe slices of other meats, but its association with bacon remains the strongest. Over the centuries, as bacon became a staple in many cultures, particularly in breakfasts, the term 'rasher' grew more common in everyday language, especially in the UK.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,558, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.