Sprinkled: meaning, definitions and examples
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sprinkled
[ ˈsprɪŋkəld ]
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.
Etymology
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.