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Unleavened: meaning, definitions and examples

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unleavened

 

[ ʌnˈlΙ›vΙ™nd ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

cooking, bread

Unleavened refers to a type of bread that is made without a leavening agent like yeast or baking powder, which means it does not rise. This kind of bread is often flat in appearance and denser than leavened bread. Unleavened bread is prevalent in various cultures and is often used in religious rituals, such as during Passover in Judaism. It can also serve as a staple food in some regions.

Synonyms

bread without yeast, cracker, flatbread

Examples of usage

  • The matzo is a traditional unleavened bread eaten during Passover.
  • Unleavened tortillas are a common part of many Mexican dishes.
  • Many cultures have their own variations of unleavened bread.

Word origin

The word 'unleavened' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'leavened,' which is derived from the Old English 'lef' meaning 'to rise' or 'to ferment.' The concept of unleavened bread can be traced back to ancient cultures, where the absence of yeast created a quicker and simpler method for bread-making. In many religious contexts, unleavened bread symbolizes purity and is often used in sacred rituals. For instance, in Judaism, the consumption of unleavened bread during Passover commemorates the haste with which the Israelites fled Egypt, as they did not have time to let their bread rise. The term has been adopted in various culinary traditions around the world, associating it with simplicity and tradition.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,692, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.