Sprinkled Meaning: Definition and Examples
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sprinkled
[ˈsprɪŋkəld ]
Definition
cooking technique
Sprinkled is the simple past form of the verb sprinkle, which means to scatter or distribute small drops or particles of a substance. It is often used in the context of cooking when one adds a small amount of an ingredient, like salt, seasoning, or sugar, over food. The action creates a more uniform flavor or appearance without overwhelming the dish. It can also refer to the distribution of objects or substances over a surface.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She sprinkled some cheese on the pasta.
- He sprinkled salt over the meat before grilling.
- The baker sprinkled powdered sugar on top of the cake.
Interesting Facts
Culinary Arts
- Sprinkled toppings like herbs or spices can enhance the flavor of a dish significantly.
- Common items that are often sprinkled include salt, sugar, and spices like pepper or cinnamon.
- Food garnishing is an art where chefs sprinkle ingredients for aesthetic appeal, making the dish more visually appealing.
Literature
- In poetry, authors often use the action of 'sprinkling' to convey themes of care, delicacy, and nurturing.
- Sprinkling is a common metaphor in literature to describe spreading joy or happiness, much like confetti at a celebration.
- Classic stories often describe the act of sprinkling as a way to enhance a setting or atmosphere, creating imagery for readers.
Psychology
- The act of sprinkling can be associated with play and creativity, as it involves experimentation with different elements.
- Research shows that small rituals, like sprinkling salt, can create a sense of calm and control during meal preparation.
- Psychologically, sprinkling colors or glitter can evoke feelings of happiness and celebration in various contexts.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters often sprinkle something over a cake, symbolizing love or celebration during a special occasion.
- Popular children's shows often feature characters who sprinkle magic dust to create whimsical effects.
- Social media is filled with trends where users sprinkle positivity through kind comments or supportive posts.
Origin of 'sprinkled'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sprinkled' comes from the Old English word 'sprint' which means to scatter.
- The suffix '-led' indicates a repeated action, so 'sprinkled' suggests that something was scattered multiple times.
- Used in English since the 14th century, it has evolved to describe not just food but also actions like spreading joy.
The word 'sprinkle' comes from the Middle English word 'sprenklen,' which is a diminutive form of 'sprenk,' meaning 'to scatter or dot.' Its roots can be traced back to Old English 'sprintan,' which means 'to leap or jump.' The evolution of 'sprinkle' reflects a gradual shift in meaning from the action of jumping to the act of scattering, emphasizing lightness and delicacy in distribution. The term has been used in various contexts, from gardening to cooking, where it conveys the essence of lightly adding or distributing substances. Over time, the usage of 'sprinkle' has expanded to include figurative meanings, such as sprinkling joy or kindness in interactions.