Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈdʒɛlətɪn/

Definitions

• 1. A colorless, flavorless, and brittle substance obtained from animal collagen, used as a gelling agent in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
• 2. A substance derived from animal collagen that forms a gel when dissolved in hot water and cooled, commonly used in making jellies, gummy candies, marshmallows, and similar items.

Usage Examples

• "She added gelatine to the dessert mixture to make it set."
• "The gelatinous texture of the gelatine helped in forming the jelly candies."
• "The recipe requires unflavored gelatine to create a firm consistency in the mousse."

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "gelare," meaning "to freeze" or "to congeal," gelatine was first used in the 18th century to describe the gelatinous substance made from animal collagen. The term evolved from "gelatin," which refers to the substance itself.

Synonyms

• Gelatin
• Jelly
• Agar-agar (in some contexts)
• Gelling agent

Antonyms

• Liquids
• Solids

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, particularly in American English, "gelatine" may be pronounced with a softer "g" sound, closer to the pronunciation of "gel." In British English, the "g" tends to be pronounced more harshly. In countries like France and Spain, the pronunciation of the word remains relatively similar to the original Latin roots, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The use of gelatine dates back to ancient civilizations, where it was primarily used as a thickener for various food products. In the 18th century, advancements in the extraction and use of collagen from animal sources led to the widespread use of gelatine in food production, such as jellies and desserts. Gelatine's use later expanded into the pharmaceutical and industrial sectors for encapsulating medicines and creating other gel-based products.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, gelatine is an essential ingredient in traditional desserts, such as jellies, gummy candies, and marshmallows. However, it has also faced criticism in vegan and vegetarian circles due to its animal-derived origin. As a result, plant-based alternatives, such as agar-agar, have gained popularity in these communities. In some cultures, gelatine is also used in the production of cosmetics and medicinal capsules.

More Information

Gelatine is a versatile substance primarily obtained from animal collagen, which is derived from connective tissues and bones. It has a wide range of uses, from culinary applications such as making jellies and gummy candies to industrial and medical uses in capsules and wound dressings. Despite being widely used in food, its animal-based origins make it unsuitable for some dietary practices, prompting the development of plant-based alternatives. Today, gelatine remains an essential component in many industries worldwide, particularly in food production and pharmaceuticals.