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Scallop: meaning, definitions and examples

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scallop

 

[ˈskæləp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

seafood dish

A scallop is a type of marine bivalve mollusk belonging to the family Pectinidae, characterized by a fan-shaped shell. These shellfish are found in oceans worldwide and are highly sought after for their tender, sweet meat, often used in various culinary dishes. Scallops are commonly harvested for both their meat and their shells, the latter of which are often used in crafts and decorations.

Synonyms

bivalve, mollusk, pecten.

Examples of usage

  • I ordered scallops for dinner.
  • The chef prepared pan-seared scallops with garlic butter.
  • Scallops are a popular dish in coastal restaurants.
Context #2 | Verb

cooking technique

To scallop is to prepare food, usually seafood, by baking it in a casserole with ingredients like cream, cheese, and breadcrumbs. This method enhances the flavors and creates a rich, comforting dish. Scalloping can be applied not just to scallops but also to various types of vegetables and meats.

Synonyms

bake, casserole, layer.

Examples of usage

  • We decided to scallop the fish with a creamy sauce.
  • The recipe calls for scalloping potatoes with cheese.
  • She loves to scallop vegetables for her casserole.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'scallop' comes from the Old French 'escalope', meaning 'shell'.
  • It is seen in Middle English as 'scalop', referring to both the shell and the edible creature inside.

Culinary Uses

  • Scallops are considered a delicacy and are often served in fine dining, prepared in various ways like grilled, baked, or sautéed.
  • Some chefs pair scallops with sauces that highlight their sweet, delicate flavor, such as lemon butter or garlic cream.

Marine Biology

  • Scallops are unique because they can swim by rapidly opening and closing their shells to escape predators.
  • Unlike many shellfish, some species of scallops have the ability to produce and use 'byssal threads', allowing them to settle onto surfaces.

Cultural Significance

  • The scallop shell has been a symbol of pilgrimage, notably associated with the Camino de Santiago in Spain.
  • In various cultures, the shell represents fertility and longevity, often used in jewelry and art.

Environmental Concerns

  • Overfishing and habitat loss have threatened some scallop populations, leading to efforts for sustainable harvesting.
  • Research is ongoing to understand the role of scallops in marine ecosystems, especially in filtering water.

Translations

Translations of the word "scallop" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vieira

🇮🇳 स्कैलप

🇩🇪 Jakobsmuschel

🇮🇩 kerang scallop

🇺🇦 гребінець

🇵🇱 przegrzebek

🇯🇵 ホタテガイ

🇫🇷 coquille Saint-Jacques

🇪🇸 vieira

🇹🇷 taraklı

🇰🇷 가리비

🇸🇦 محار

🇨🇿 svatojánská mušle

🇸🇰 mušľa svätého Jakuba

🇨🇳 扇贝

🇸🇮 školjka

🇮🇸 skeljur

🇰🇿 қабыршақ

🇬🇪 კარაქი

🇦🇿 qızılbalıq

🇲🇽 viera

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,983, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.