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Skewering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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skewering

[หˆskjuหษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

cooking

To skewer means to pierce food, usually meat or vegetables, with a sharp object such as a skewer or a stick. It is commonly used for grilling or barbecuing, allowing for easier handling and cooking of the items.

Synonyms

impale, pierce, stab.

Examples of usage

  • We enjoyed skewering marinated chicken pieces for the barbecue.
  • The chef demonstrated skewering vegetables for the kabobs.
  • He is an expert at skewering meat for the grill.
Context #2 | Verb

criticism

In a more figurative sense, to skewer can also mean to criticize or ridicule someone sharply. This usage is often found in journalism or commentary.

Synonyms

criticize, lampoon, ridicule.

Examples of usage

  • The article skewered the politician's controversial statements.
  • She didn't hold back, skewering the film's plot in her review.
  • His jokes tend to skewered his friends in a playful manner.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culinary Practices

  • Skewers are commonly used in many cultures, from Middle Eastern kebabs to Malaysian satay, showcasing global culinary diversity.
  • Different materials, such as metal, bamboo, and even rosemary branches, can be used for skewering food.

Literature & Media

  • The term 'skewering' has been used metaphorically, especially in literature, to describe sharp criticism of characters or societal issues.
  • In popular media, comedic sketches often feature skewering as a way to humorously critique public figures.

Psychology

  • Criticism, akin to skewering, can evoke emotional responses; some may feel attacked, while others see it as constructive feedback.
  • People often use humor and sarcasm as a form of 'verbal skewering' to manage social dynamics.

Cultural Practices

  • Many cultures have traditional festivals where skewered food like kebabs or satays are central to the celebration.
  • Food on skewers is often associated with gatherings and barbecues, promoting social interaction and sharing.

Origin of 'skewering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old Norse 'skรบra,' meaning to pierce or stab.
  • In the 15th century, it was used in English referring to the act of piercing meat for cooking.

The word 'skewer' originates from the Middle English word 'skever' which itself comes from the Old Norse word 'skefja,' meaning 'to pierce or to stab.' It was historically used to describe the act of piercing meat for cooking or preservation. The evolution of cooking techniques across cultures saw the skewer being used with various meats, fish, and vegetables, especially in grilling and barbecuing traditions. Over time, the term has also acquired a metaphorical meaning related to sharp criticism, which reflects how passionate and sometimes severing critiques can feel, much like the act of piercing. This duality in meaning illustrates the versatility of language as it adapts to cultural practices and societal values.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,452, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.