gustatory
GUSS-tuh-tor-ee
/ˈɡʌs.tə.tɔːr.i/
Relating to the sense of taste.
The formal counterpart to 'olfactory', used to describe the biological or technical aspects of tasting.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'gustare' (to taste). This root also gives us 'disgust' (literally 'bad taste') and 'gusto' (doing something with great 'taste' or enthusiasm).
Commonly confused with
- olfactory: Gustatory is taste; olfactory is smell.
Word family
- gustation (noun): The action or faculty of tasting.
Collocations
- gustatory perception
- gustatory system
- gustatory pleasure
- gustatory cells
Example sentences
- "The dinner was a gustatory delight, featuring flavors from six different continents." Describing a multi-sensory experience.
- "Gustatory cells are located within the taste buds on the tongue and soft palate." Scientific study of flavor.
Memory hook
Think of 'Gusto'—if you eat with gusto, you are enjoying the gustatory experience. Gustatory: The 'G' is for 'Gulp' (tasting).
When not to use
Avoid in casual dining; use 'tasty' or 'flavorful' instead.
Fun facts
- We have about 10,000 taste buds, but they are replaced every two weeks.
Explore more words
olfactory, sensory, organoleptic, degustation, imagery, culinary
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