Toast Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
toast
[tษสst ]
Definitions
breakfast
Sliced bread that has been browned by exposure to radiant heat. Often eaten with butter or jam.
Synonyms
brown bread, grilled bread.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toast |
Commonly used to refer to bread that has been browned by exposure to radiant heat. Suitable for general breakfast or snack contexts.
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| grilled bread |
Indicates bread that has been cooked on a grill or griddle, often adding a smoky flavor. Used in contexts related to outdoor cooking or gourmet dishes.
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| brown bread |
Refers to bread made with whole grain flours and often seen as a healthier alternative to white bread. It is typically used in contexts focusing on health or whole food diets.
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Examples of usage
- I like to have toast with my coffee in the morning.
- She ordered avocado toast for brunch.
celebration
A proposal or sentiment offered in a congratulatory manner, especially when accompanied by the raising of glasses and a brief speech.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toast |
Commonly used when raising a glass to celebrate an occasion or express good wishes.
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| tribute |
Used when honoring someone's achievements, memory, or contributions, often in a more formal or solemn manner.
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| salute |
Typically used in military or formal contexts to show respect or honor.
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Examples of usage
- The best man gave a heartfelt toast to the newlyweds.
- Let's raise a toast to the success of the project!
celebration
To raise one's glass and drink in honor or celebration of someone or something.
Synonyms
drink to, raise a glass.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| toast |
This is commonly used in formal or celebratory settings when someone offers words of congratulations, thanks, or well-wishes. It typically involves speaking to a group and then drinking together.
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| raise a glass |
This expression is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings. It emphasizes the physical action of lifting a glass and is a way to show respect or celebration.
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| drink to |
This phrase is used when you want to explicitly wish good health or success to someone while drinking. It is less formal than 'toast' and often used in more personal or casual settings.
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Examples of usage
- Everyone toasted to the bride and groom's happiness.
- We toasted to a successful partnership.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In movies and TV shows, friends often raise glasses and say 'toast' to celebrate happy moments together.
- Toast has appeared in various art forms, like poems and songs - one famous toast is 'Cheers'!
- The butter on toast can sometimes symbolize comfort and homeliness in various cultures, often featured in scenes of family meals.
Science
- When bread is toasted, a chemical reaction called the Maillard reaction occurs, giving it a characteristic brown color and flavor.
- Toast can have a higher glycemic index than un-toasted bread, meaning it can affect blood sugar levels differently.
- Toasting bread reduces its moisture content, which affects its texture and makes it crispy.
History
- Early humans discovered toasting by cooking bread over fire, enhancing its flavor and preserving it for longer.
- In the 19th century, specialized machines for making toast were developed, making it easier to enjoy at home.
- Toast became a celebrated breakfast item in the 20th century, with variations emerging across cultures, from German 'toastbrot' to French 'brioche'.
Literature
- Toast is often used as a literary device to symbolize celebration or nostalgia in many classic novels.
- Well-known authors like Charles Dickens referenced toast in their works, showcasing its social significance.
- Various poems have captured the simple pleasure of toast, often associating it with comfort, family, and home.
Origin of 'toast'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'toast' originally referred to a spiced piece of bread added to wine to improve its taste in the 15th century.
- In Latin, the word 'tostus' means 'to scorch', which reflects how the bread is made crispy.
- By the 17th century, toasting bread became common practice as an enjoyment in meals, particularly during breakfast.
The word 'toast' originated from the Latin word 'tostare', which means 'to parch or roast'. The practice of toasting bread dates back to ancient times when people would use heat to preserve bread and make it more palatable. The modern usage of 'toast' to mean a celebratory gesture with drinks can be traced back to the 17th century in England.
See also: milquetoast, toasting, toasty.