Vegetarian: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing someone who does not eat meat but may still consume animal products like dairy and eggs.

• She is a vegetarian but loves cheese and eggs.
• Many vegetarians enjoy a variety of plant-based dishes.

Describes someone who does not consume any animal products, including meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. It also often includes avoiding animal products in other areas of life, like clothing.

• She is vegan and avoids wearing leather.
• A vegan diet excludes all forms of animal products.

Typically refers to animals that eat only plants. It is not commonly used for people.

• Cows are herbivores.
• Herbivores play a crucial role in the ecosystem.

Used when describing someone who follows a diet primarily based on plants. Unlike vegetarians or vegans, it gives room for occasional consumption of animal products.

• He is a plant-based diet follower, but sometimes he eats fish.
• A plant-based diet follower focuses on fruits, vegetables, and grains.

Describe food or a diet that excludes meat but may include animal products like dairy and eggs. It can refer to people who follow such a diet.

• I'm a vegetarian because I don't eat meat.
• The restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes.

Indicates that a product, dish, or service caters to vegan principles, meaning it contains no animal products or by-products. It is helpful to assure vegans that something aligns with their diet.

• These shoes are vegan-friendly, made without any animal leather.
• That restaurant has a vegan-friendly menu including dairy-free and meat-free options.

Often used in the context of diets that primarily consist of foods derived from plants. It focuses on eating whole, unprocessed plant foods and might not entirely exclude animal products.

• I switched to a plant-based diet to improve my health.
• This smoothie is made from 100% plant-based ingredients.