Soup Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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soup

[suːp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food

A liquid dish, typically made by boiling meat, fish, or vegetables in stock or water.

Synonyms

bisque, broth, stew.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
soup

General term for a liquid food made by cooking meat, vegetables, etc., in water or stock. Suitable for informal meals and general conversations about food.

  • I made a delicious chicken soup for dinner.
  • Tomato soup is my favorite comfort food.
broth

A clear, thin soup made by simmering meat, fish, or vegetables in water. Frequently used in cooking, especially in recipes that require a flavorful liquid base. Can be mentioned in both casual and culinary contexts.

  • Add some chicken broth to the risotto for extra flavor.
  • He sipped on beef broth to help his cold.
stew

A thick, hearty dish composed of meat and vegetables cooked slowly in liquid. Generally used when talking about more substantial, filling meals.

  • The beef stew we had last night was very hearty.
  • She prepared a delicious vegetable stew for the family.
bisque

A creamy, smooth, and thick soup, usually made with shellfish. Appropriate for more formal settings or menus in upscale restaurants.

  • The lobster bisque at the restaurant was outstanding.
  • She ordered a crab bisque before the main course.

Examples of usage

  • She made a delicious vegetable soup for dinner.
  • I like to have a bowl of hot soup on a cold day.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

Gossip; information, usually of a personal or sensational nature.

Synonyms

chatter, gossip, rumors.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
soup

Commonly used to describe a liquid food made by cooking vegetables, meat, or fish in water. It's a dish served in meals.

  • I made a delicious tomato soup for dinner.
  • Chicken noodle soup is great when you have a cold.
gossip

Talking about personal matters or secrets of others, often involving scandal or drama. This term often carries a negative connotation.

  • She's always spreading gossip about her colleagues.
  • Gossip can be very hurtful and damaging.
chatter

Casual and light conversation usually among friends or in social gatherings. Can also describe sounds made by birds or other animals.

  • The kids were chattering happily about their day at school.
  • I could hear the birds chattering in the trees.
rumors

Unverified information or stories that are spread from person to person. They are often false or exaggerated and can have negative implications.

  • There were rumors that the company was going bankrupt.
  • Don't believe everything you hear; rumors can be misleading.

Examples of usage

  • There's a lot of soup about their relationship in the office.
  • She loves to stir the soup and spread rumors.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, soup is seen as comfort food, often served during gatherings and family meals.
  • Traditional Chinese cuisine includes 'hot and sour soup' and 'sweet corn soup', showcasing regional flavors and ingredients.

Health Benefits

  • Soups can be a great way to increase vegetable intake, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Eating warm soup can help with digestion and hydration, especially during cold weather.

Culinary Techniques

  • Soups can be classified into two main categories: clear soups, like broth, and thick soups, like chowder or bisque.
  • There are endless variations of soup, from classic chicken noodle to spicy ramen, allowing for creativity in cooking.

Pop Culture

  • The popular Campbell's Soup brand became iconic in the 1960s, embraced by modern art through Andy Warhol's famous prints.
  • In literature, soup often symbolizes warmth and care, such as in the children's book 'Stone Soup,' which teaches sharing.

Origin of 'soup'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'soup' comes from the Latin word 'sopa,' which means bread soaked in broth.
  • In medieval Europe, soups were often made with the leftover ingredients, making them a symbol of resourcefulness.

The word 'soup' has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages. It comes from the Old French word 'soupe', which originally meant a piece of bread soaked in broth. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to the liquid food itself, and it became a staple in many cultures around the world.


Word Frequency Rank

At #7,368 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.