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Roe Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŸ
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roe

[roสŠ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

fish terminology

Roe refers to the eggs of fish and certain other marine animals, particularly those that are harvested for human consumption. It is often considered a delicacy in many cuisines around the world. The term can also refer to the male sperm, which is sometimes collected and processed similarly. Roe is often used in dishes like sushi or as a garnish in gourmet preparations. Different types of roe can vary greatly in flavor, texture, and appearance.

Synonyms

eggs, spawn, sperm.

Examples of usage

  • Caviar is a highly prized type of roe.
  • The chef garnished the dish with fresh roe.
  • Some recipes call for fish roe as a key ingredient.
  • In Japanese cuisine, roe is commonly used in sushi.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Roe is commonly found in sushi, where it's known as 'ikura' when it comes from salmon.
  • In some cultures, people have a tradition of celebrating certain holidays with dishes that include fish eggs.
  • Caviar, a luxury food item, is made from a specific type of roe, typically sturgeon, and is prized for its rich flavor.

Biology

  • Fish roe can contain millions of eggs, which increase the chance of species survival in the wild.
  • Roe plays an important role in the aquatic food chain, as many animals feed on it, including other fish and birds.
  • The maturity of roe can determine reproductive success; healthier and larger eggs are more likely to hatch successfully.

Cultural Significance

  • In Japanese cuisine, roe symbolizes prosperity and is often used during celebrations like New Year.
  • Some cultures have specific rituals or practices around the fishing and consumption of roe, tying it to sustainability.

Aquaculture

  • With rising demand for seafood, many countries have developed methods to farm fish and their roe, balancing consumer needs with environmental impacts.
  • Scientific studies focus on the health benefits of consuming roe, including its high omega-3 fatty acid content and vitamins.

Regulation and Sustainability

  • Due to overfishing concerns, specific types of roe, particularly caviar, are regulated to prevent extinction of vulnerable species.
  • Sustainable aquaculture practices are being explored to ensure that the harvesting of fish roe does not negatively impact natural populations.

Origin of 'roe'

The word 'roe' comes from the Old English term 'rลe', which is related to similar terms in other Germanic languages, such as the Old Norse 'rรณn' and German 'Rogen'. Its etymology traces back to the Proto-Germanic '*raughล', which refers to fish eggs or spawn. Historically, roe has been significant in various cultures, especially in fishing communities, where it has been valued both as a food source and as a commodity. Throughout the centuries, the production and consumption of roe, especially from sturgeon, have led to the development of luxury products like caviar. Today, roe continues to be an important component of gastronomy and international cuisine, celebrated for its unique flavors and textures.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,746, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.