Poke Meaning and Definition
Poke
Pronunciation
/poʊk/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A brand of Hawaiian-styled raw fish salad, typically made with raw fish, soy sauce, onions, and sesame oil, served with rice and often accompanied by other dishes such as seaweed salad and pickled ginger.
Etymology
The word “Poke” originated in Hawaii, where it has been a staple dish since the time of ancient Hawaiian cuisine. The dish is believed to have been brought to Hawaii by Native Hawaiian fishermen who would carry raw fish in a salted seaweed wrap (called lakou) to eat while out at sea.
Usage Notes
Poke is typically served as an appetizer or snack, and is often accompanied by a variety of toppings such as diced vegetables, grated daikon, and sliced seaweed. It is also sometimes served as a main course, particularly at casual gatherings or outdoor events.
Cultural References
Poke has been featured in numerous TV shows and movies, including “Hawaii Five-0” and “The Descendants”. It is also a popular item at many Hawaiian restaurants and food trucks.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To poke around: to explore or investigate something casually
Related Words or Phrases
- Raw fish
- Fish salad
- Hawaiian cuisine
Collocations
- Poke bowl: a bowl of poke served with rice and often accompanied by other dishes
Frequency of Use
Poke is a relatively common term in modern language, particularly among foodies and those interested in Hawaiian culture.
Common Misspellings
- Poka
- Poko