cuisine
kwee-ZEEN
/kwɪˈziːn/
A style or method of cooking, especially as characteristic of a particular country, region, or establishment.
While 'food' is the substance we eat, 'cuisine' implies a developed system of traditions, techniques, and specific ingredients.
The story behind the word. Originally, the French word 'cuisine' simply meant 'kitchen.' Over time, it evolved to represent the specific style of food that came out of those kitchens. By the 18th century, it was used in English to describe the high-art cooking of France before expanding to cover all regional styles.
Word relationships
- cookery: More British and focuses on the act of cooking rather than the cultural style.
- gastronomy: Refers more to the study or appreciation of food rather than the style of cooking itself.
Commonly confused with
- kitchen: A kitchen is the physical room; cuisine is the style of food produced.
Word family
- cuisines (noun): Plural form referring to multiple styles of cooking.
Collocations
- local cuisine
- haute cuisine
- fusion cuisine
- traditional cuisine
Example sentences
- "The city is famous for its diverse cuisine, ranging from spicy Thai street food to classic French bistros." Describing the diversity of global food.
- "French cuisine is a style of cooking derived from the nation of France." A famous quote about French cooking.
Memory hook
Think of a 'Queen' in her 'Cuisine'. A queen only eats the finest style of cooking. Cuisine = Cultural Cooking.
When not to use
Avoid using it for a single snack or a random meal that doesn't follow a specific cultural style (e.g., don't call a bowl of cereal 'breakfast cuisine').
Fun facts
- The term 'Haute Cuisine' literally translates to 'High Cooking,' referring to the elaborate, formal style of 19th-century French chefs.
Related words
Explore more words
degustation, mise en place, plating, culture, epicurean, feast
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