Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Scallop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿš
Add to dictionary

scallop

[หˆskรฆlษ™p ]

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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Uses

  • Scallops are considered a delicacy and are often served in fine dining, prepared in various ways like grilled, baked, or sautรฉed.
  • 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.

Origin of 'scallop'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'scallop' can be traced back to the Old French word 'escallop', which originally meant 'shell' or 'shellfish'. The term evolved from Latin 'scallupa', meaning 'shallow boat' or 'shell', referring to the shape of the scallop shell resembling a boat. The scallopโ€™s historical usage is closely tied to coastal cultures, where it has been a source of food since ancient times. The shell has also held cultural significance in various traditions, often symbolizing pilgrimage or metamorphosis. In culinary terms, scallops became popular in European cuisine, particularly in French cooking, where they were introduced and refined as a delicacy. The word has since established itself in the English language as both a noun and verb, signifying both the creature and a specific cooking technique.

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.