Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈtʃɪli sɔːs/

Definitions

• Noun: A spicy condiment made from chillies, typically used to add heat and flavor to dishes.
• Noun: A sauce commonly served with various foods like sandwiches, burgers, and fried snacks to enhance the taste.

Usage Examples

• "I like to add some chilli sauce to my noodles for an extra kick."
• "The restaurant offers a variety of sauces, including a tangy chilli sauce."
• "She dipped her fries into the spicy chilli sauce."

Etymology

The term "chilli" comes from the Nahuatl word "chīlli," which refers to hot peppers. The word "sauce" comes from the Latin "salsus," meaning salted or brined. The combination of these terms describes a sauce made from chillies, which was popularized in various culinary traditions, especially in Asia and Latin America.

Synonyms

• Hot sauce
• Chili sauce
• Spicy sauce
• Pepper sauce

Antonyms

• Sweet sauce
• Mild sauce
• Bland sauce

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "chilli sauce" may vary depending on the region, with some regions pronouncing it as "chili sauce" (American English) and others as "chilli sauce" (British English), but both refer to the same condiment. In certain Asian countries, such as Thailand and India, the pronunciation of "chilli" may have a more pronounced "i" sound.

Historical Usage

The use of chilli sauce dates back to the introduction of chillies from the Americas to Europe and Asia in the 16th century. As chilli peppers gained popularity, the creation of sauces from these peppers became common in many regions, with varying degrees of spiciness. Chilli sauce became a staple in Mexican, Asian, and even European cuisines, where it continues to be used to add spice and flavor to dishes.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, chilli sauce is not just a condiment but an integral part of daily meals. In Mexico, chilli sauce is used to complement everything from tacos to grilled meats. In India, it often accompanies fried snacks such as samosas or pakoras. In Asian countries like Thailand and Vietnam, chilli sauces are a central component of the cuisine, with unique varieties tailored to the region's specific dishes.

More Information

Chilli sauce is a versatile condiment that varies in flavor and heat depending on the region and type of chilli pepper used. Some variations include vinegar-based sauces, while others are sweeter and thicker, often incorporating ingredients like sugar or tomatoes. Beyond enhancing flavor, chilli sauce is also used for medicinal purposes in some cultures due to the active compound capsaicin, which is known for its pain-relieving and metabolism-boosting properties.