Savour Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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savour

[ˈseɪ.vər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

taste experience

To savour something means to enjoy it completely, particularly by experiencing it with taste or smell. This term is often used to describe the act of relishing food, drinks, or even moments in life. When someone savours their meal, they take their time to appreciate the flavors and aromas, enhancing their dining experience. It can also refer to making the most of an experience and truly immersing oneself in it.

Synonyms

appreciate, enjoy, relish.

Examples of usage

  • He savoured every bite of the chocolate cake.
  • She took a moment to savour the beautiful sunset.
  • We savoured the rich aroma of the freshly brewed coffee.
Context #2 | Noun

taste quality

Savour can also be used as a noun, referring to a distinctive taste or aroma. It denotes the quality of a food or drink that makes it enjoyable and memorable. The savours of different cuisines can vary greatly, impacting the overall dining experience. Chefs often aim to create a perfect balance of savours in their dishes.

Synonyms

essence, flavor, taste.

Examples of usage

  • The dish had a unique savour that captivated my senses.
  • The wine's savour lingered on the palate.
  • Her cooking was noted for its depth of savours.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • Chefs often emphasize the importance of 'savour' during dining experiences, encouraging diners to appreciate each element of a dish.
  • Savouring is a technique used in cooking to enhance the enjoyment of flavours through methods like seasoning or marinating.
  • The concept of 'savouring' is central to the slow food movement, which promotes the enjoyment of meals over fast eating.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people who take time to savour experiences tend to have higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction.
  • Savouring can involve reliving happy moments in your mind, helping to boost your mood even after a joyful experience has ended.
  • Mindfulness practices often include techniques to savour present moments, improving mental well-being.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have rituals centered around food that encourage savour, such as sharing meals or family gatherings.
  • In some traditions, specific foods are savoured during holidays, symbolizing gratitude and joy.
  • The act of savouring can also be found in various cultures where tasting different spices and flavours is a form of art.

Origin of 'savour'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old French 'savour', meaning to taste or smell wisely.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'sapere', which means to have taste or to be wise.
  • The use of the word in English dates back to the 14th century, originally relating to the enjoyment of food.

The word 'savour' has its origins in the late Middle English term 'savouren,' which derives from the Old French word 'savorer' and traces further back to the Latin 'saporem,' meaning 'taste, flavor.' The components of this Latin word include 'sapere,' meaning 'to taste' or 'to know.' Throughout history, the term has evolved, initially focused on the literal sense of taste and gradually expanding to encompass broader experiences, such as enjoying moments or emotions fully. The modern usage effectively captures both the sensory pleasure associated with food and drink as well as the enjoyment of life's experiences, highlighting its versatility in the English language.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,658, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.