Meaning of Word
Caviar refers to the salted eggs (roe) of sturgeon or other fish, often considered a luxury food item and served as a delicacy.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- The salted roe (eggs) of certain types of fish, especially sturgeon, used as food.
- A luxurious, high-status food often associated with wealth and fine dining.
History and Origin
The word caviar comes from the French caviar, which itself is derived from the Turkish khavyar, meaning “egg.” The term began to be used in English around the early 17th century, primarily referring to the roe of sturgeon fish. Historically, caviar was originally consumed by people in the Black Sea and Caspian Sea regions before it became known globally as a delicacy.
Detailed Explanation
Caviar is prized for its delicate flavor and texture, often consumed in small quantities due to its high cost. It is typically served chilled, sometimes on crackers, toast, or as part of gourmet dishes. There are different types of caviar, based on the species of fish from which the roe is obtained, with sturgeon caviar being the most renowned and expensive. The roe is salted to preserve it, and its taste is often described as briny and rich.
Example Sentences
- At the luxurious banquet, they served caviar as an appetizer.
- She spread the caviar on a small cracker and savored the taste.
- The restaurant is famous for its fresh caviar sourced directly from the Caspian Sea.
- He gifted his friend a tin of premium caviar for his birthday.
- The elite guests were treated to a dinner of lobster, foie gras, and caviar.
- Caviar is often considered the ultimate indulgence at upscale parties.
- They celebrated the occasion with champagne and a platter of caviar.
- The chef recommended the caviar as the highlight of the tasting menu.
- Caviar can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other fine ingredients, such as smoked salmon.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Roe – Fish eggs, often salted and served as a delicacy.
- Fish eggs – A more general term for the reproductive cells of fish, which can be eaten.
- Delicacy – A rare or expensive food that is highly valued.
- Gourmet food – High-quality, often expensive food enjoyed for its flavor and preparation.
- Luxury food – Foods that are associated with wealth and exclusivity.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Sturgeon – A large fish known for its roe, which is the source of premium caviar.
- Gastronomy – The art and science of good eating, often involving delicacies like caviar.
- Brine – A solution of salt and water used to preserve caviar.
- Smoked salmon – A popular dish often paired with caviar in high-end meals.
- Foie gras – A luxurious, rich food often served with caviar at gourmet banquets.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Beluga caviar – A type of caviar derived from the beluga sturgeon, considered one of the finest and most expensive.
- Osetra caviar – A type of caviar made from the eggs of the osetra sturgeon, known for its nutty flavor.
- Sevruga caviar – A more affordable variety of caviar, made from the eggs of the sevruga sturgeon.
- Caviar substitute – Products made to mimic the taste and texture of real caviar, often made from fish roe or seaweed.
- Caviar-tasting – A culinary experience in which different types of caviar are sampled for their unique flavors.
Antonyms
- Simple food – Everyday food items that are less extravagant or luxurious.
- Common fare – Ordinary, widely available food that is not considered a luxury.
- Inexpensive food – Foods that are not costly or exclusive, unlike caviar.
- Fast food – Quick, inexpensive meals that are generally less refined.
- Basic ingredients – Simple, unadorned foods that are used in regular cooking.