Dim sum Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/dɪm ˈsʊm/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A type of traditional Cantonese cuisine originating from southern China, consisting of small, bite-sized portions of steamed or fried foods, often served with tea.

Etymology

The word “Dim sum” is derived from the Cantonese phrase “” (dim2 sam1), meaning “touch the heart”.

Usage Notes

Dim sum is often used as a verb, meaning to eat dim sum. For example, “Let’s go dim sum on the weekend.”.

Cultural References

Dim sum has been featured in various TV shows and movies, including “The Joy Luck Club” and “Crazy Rich Asians”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Dim sum on the go” – eating dim sum while on-the-go.
• “Dim sum and chat” – socializing and eating dim sum at the same time.

Related Words or Phrases

• Cantonese
• Southern Chinese cuisine

Collocations

• Dim sum afternoon
• Dim sum dinner
• Dim sum lunch

Frequency of Use

Dim sum is a relatively common term in modern language, especially in areas with significant Chinese populations.

Common Misspellings

• Dim summ
• Dim sums