gastronomy
gas-TRON-uh-mee
/ɡæsˈtrɒn.ə.mi/
The practice or art of choosing, cooking, and eating good food; the study of the relationship between food and culture.
It is much broader than 'cooking'; it includes the history, science, and sociology of what we eat.
The story behind the word. The word was coined in the 17th century but popularized by the French lawyer Brillat-Savarin. It literally means 'the laws of the stomach,' suggesting that eating is not just a biological necessity but a disciplined art form with its own rules.
Word relationships
- epicurism: Focuses more on the luxury and pleasure of eating than the study of it.
Commonly confused with
- gastritis: Both share the root 'gaster' (stomach), but gastritis is a medical inflammation, while gastronomy is a culinary art.
Word family
- gastronome (noun): A person who is knowledgeable about gastronomy; a gourmet.
- gastronomic (adjective): Relating to gastronomy.
Collocations
- molecular gastronomy
- modern gastronomy
- gastronomy tour
Example sentences
- "Molecular gastronomy uses physics and chemistry to transform the textures and flavors of food." Discussing the cultural impact of food.
- "Gastronomy is the intelligent knowledge of whatever concerns man's nourishment." A classic definition from a famous food writer.
Memory hook
GASTRONOMY: GASTRO (stomach) + NOMY (knowledge/study). It’s the 'astronomy' of the stomach. Laws of the stomach.
When not to use
Too heavy for casual conversation about what's for dinner. Use it when discussing food as an art form or a field of study.
Fun facts
- UNESCO has designated several 'Cities of Gastronomy' around the world, including Parma (Italy) and Tucson (USA), to preserve food heritage.
Related words
Explore more words
degustation, epicurean, mise en place, plating, organoleptic, culture
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