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Savoury Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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savoury

[หˆseษช.vษ™r.i ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

food taste

Savoury describes flavors that are not sweet, often associated with salty, spicy, or umami tastes. This adjective is used to characterize dishes that tantalize the palate with rich and hearty flavors. Savoury foods can include meats, cheeses, and various types of vegetables, often seasoned or cooked in a way that enhances their natural taste. It's commonly used in culinary contexts to differentiate these flavors from sweeter counterparts.

Synonyms

flavorful, salty, savory, spicy, umami.

Examples of usage

  • The savoury pie was filled with rich meats.
  • They served a savoury sauce with the fish.
  • I prefer savoury snacks over sweet ones.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Use

  • Savoury foods often contain herbs, spices, and umami, which is recognized as the fifth basic taste.
  • Classic savoury dishes include stews, curries, and cheeses, all known to be rich in flavors and aromas.
  • Many cultures have specific savoury dishes that highlight local ingredients, like paella in Spain or pho in Vietnam.

Health and Nutrition

  • Savoury snacks, like nuts and popcorn, can provide beneficial nutrients, especially if they are minimally processed.
  • The balance of savoury flavors can enhance meals and may help with satiety, meaning you feel full for longer.
  • Certain savoury foods can be high in salt, so moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet.

Pop Culture

  • Savoury flavors are often showcased in cooking shows, where chefs experiment with unusual ingredients to create new taste experiences.
  • Fast food industries capitalize on savoury tastes, with burgers and fries being iconic examples around the globe.
  • Food trends frequently highlight savoury elements in unexpected items, such as savoury ice cream flavors like avocado or bacon.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that savoury flavors can evoke strong memories and emotions, linking them to comfort and nostalgia.
  • People's preference for savoury over sweet can vary by region and culture, indicating how taste is influenced by environment.
  • Some studies show that umami, a key savoury taste, can enhance the pleasure derived from eating, making meals more satisfying.

Origin of 'savoury'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'sapor', which means taste or flavor, highlighting its roots in the appreciation of food.
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century, originally referring to food that is pleasant in flavor.
  • The spelling 'savoury' is commonly used in British English, while 'savory' is the American English variant.

The word 'savoury' originates from the Middle English word 'savorie', which was derived from the Old French 'savorรฉ', meaning 'flavorful' or 'tasty'. This, in turn, comes from the Latin 'saporem', which translates to 'taste' or 'flavor'. Over the centuries, the meaning of savoury evolved to specifically refer to foods that have a pleasant, salty, or spicy quality, especially in contrast to sweet flavors. The term is often used in culinary arts to describe dishes that are complex, satisfying, and richly flavorful, encapsulating the essence of diverse cultural cuisines. As culinary practices developed, the term 'savoury' became widely used to express appreciation for the depth and intricacies of non-sweet flavors in food.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,055, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.