Eggplant Meaning and Definition
Eggplant
Pronunciation
/ˈɛɡplaɪnt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A purple fruiting vegetable commonly used in cooking, of the species Solanum melongena.
Etymology
The word “Eggplant” is believed to have originated from the Arabic word “al-badhinjan”, which referred to the egg-shaped fruit of the plant.
Usage Notes
(“Eggplant” is typically used in American English, while “Aubergine” is more commonly used in British English.)
Cultural References
Eggplant has appeared in various cultural references, including in literature, film, and cuisine.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Aubergine moment
Related Words or Phrases
- Vegetable
- Fruit
Collocations
- Eggplant parmesan
Frequency of Use
Eggplant is a relatively common term, with an estimated frequency of around 0.01% in spoken language.
Common Misspellings
egg-plant, egg plane, egglant
Examples
- The chef roasted the eggplant for the dinner party.
- Eggplant is a popular ingredient in many Italian dishes.
- The eggplant parmesan was a crowd favorite at the food festival.
- After the game, she treated her friends to a plate of eggplant lasagna.
- Eggplant is a nutritious and flavorful addition to many meals.
Synonyms
- Aubergine
- Birds Egg
Antonyms
- Tomato
- Cucumber
Additional Information
Eggplant is a warm-season crop, typically grown in temperate climates. It is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. In many cultures, eggplant is a popular ingredient in savory dishes, and it is also used in various desserts and beverages.
Eggplant is often used as a meat substitute due to its texture and flavor profile. It can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, or baked, and it pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices.
Eggplant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various health issues, including digestive problems and high blood pressure.