Collop

Part of Speech

Noun (plural: collops)

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒlɒp/

Definitions

1. A slice or small piece of meat, especially one that has been fried or cooked in a particular manner.
2. An old English term referring to a portion of meat served, typically referring to a small or thin cut.
3. In historical or literary context, could also refer to a piece or fragment of something (not necessarily meat).

Usage Examples

• He enjoyed his collops of beef with mustard on the side.
• During the medieval feast, the chef served the guests various collops of pork and lamb.

Etymology

The word "collop" originates from the Middle English word "colop," which comes from the Old French "coloppe" meaning "slice of meat," derived from the Late Latin "colopus," meaning "a piece of meat." It has been used in English since at least the 14th century.

Synonyms

• Slice
• Cutlet
• Portion
• Piece

Antonyms

• Whole
• Whole roast
• Block

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In American English: /ˈkɒlɒp/

In British English: /ˈkɒlɒp/

Historical Usage

Historically, the term "collop" was used to describe slices or portions of meat, often in the context of meals during feasts or daily consumption. It was commonly used in medieval English literature and cooking recipes.

Cultural Nuances

In traditional English cuisine, "collops" were often associated with meat prepared in a particular style, sometimes fried or stewed. The word also appears in various regional recipes that highlight how meat was served during different historical periods.

More Information

Collops were once a common part of medieval and early modern European diets, particularly in Britain. Today, the term has become largely obsolete, but it still occasionally appears in historical contexts or in literary works that reference traditional cooking methods.