Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈbrɪndʒəl/

Definitions

• Noun: A tropical plant (Solanum melongena) of the nightshade family, widely cultivated for its edible fruit.
• Noun: The fruit of the brinjal plant, typically glossy and purple, also known as eggplant in other regions.

Usage Examples

• "She prepared a delicious curry using fresh brinjal from the garden."
• "The brinjal was roasted and served with spices to add flavor to the meal."
• "In many Indian dishes, brinjal is an essential ingredient, adding both texture and taste."

Etymology

The word "brinjal" comes from the Portuguese word "berinjela," which is derived from the Arabic "al-bādhinjān." The term "eggplant" is common in American English, while "brinjal" is more widely used in South Asia, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

Synonyms

• Eggplant
• Aubergine (British English)

Antonyms

• None (as it's a specific plant)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In South India, the word "brinjal" is commonly used, while "baingan" is often used in North India.
• In British English, "aubergine" is more commonly used than "brinjal," which is widely used in South Asia.

Historical Usage

The term "brinjal" has been in use in South Asia for centuries, likely brought by traders and travelers from the Arab world. The plant is believed to have originated in India and has been cultivated there for over 2,000 years.

Cultural Nuances

Brinjal is an essential ingredient in many South Asian cuisines, particularly in India, where it is used in a variety of dishes such as curries, bhartas, and pickles. In some regions, brinjal is considered a symbol of good health and is often included in daily meals.

More Information

Brinjal, also known as eggplant, is not only a flavorful vegetable but also a nutritious one, rich in vitamins and minerals. It is widely grown in warm climates, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, and is used in various culinary traditions across the world. The brinjal plant is part of the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes and potatoes.