meat - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
meat Word Meanings
- animal flesh used as food
- the edible part of a plant or fruit
- the essential substance or core of something
meat Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
meat Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/miːt/
US
/miːt/
meat Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'meat' comes from Old English 'mete', meaning food; Historical origin: Proto-Germanic → Old English → Modern English; Memory image: Imagine a feast where roasted meat is the centerpiece, illustrating its value as a source of sustenance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I grip the edge of the cutting board, pull a cold slab of meat from the fridge, and settle it on the counter. I set a pan on the stove, turn the dial, and feel the heat rise as I adjust the flame. I lift the meat and give it a quick turn in the hot oil, keeping it moving so it doesn’t stick. The sizzle and smell fill the room, and the meat begins to feel like real food, the core of a meal.
Real Context
Meat is a common noun for the edible flesh of animals used as food, such as beef, pork, chicken, or lamb. It’s also used metaphorically to mean the main substance or core of something, as in 'the meat of the argument'. In some senses, it can refer to the edible part of a plant or fruit in older usage, though that sense is rare today. The word emphasizes sustenance and appetite and is usually treated as a mass noun or counted in portions when talking about portions of meat. Etymologically, 'meat' comes from Old English mete, linked to Proto-Germanic roots for food and meal, underscoring its longstanding connection to nourishment.
Usage Reminders
- Meat is usually uncountable when talking about food (not 'meats' in most cases).
- Use 'meat' for animal flesh; 'flesh' is more anatomical or literary.
- The metaphorical sense (the meat of something) is common but formal.
- Pair with cooking verbs: roast, grill, bake, fry.
- Be aware of regional differences: some phrases hide or avoid certain meats.
- Do not confuse with plant parts—modern usage rarely uses 'meat' for plants.
Common Misconceptions
- Meat only comes from cows or pigs.
- Meat is always red when cooked.
- Meat and flesh are the same word in all contexts.
- Meat refers to the edible part of a plant.
- Meat cannot be used metaphorically.
Thinking Differences
Meat is a concrete, everyday word in English; learners often overgeneralize it or mix up animal flesh with other edible parts. The metaphorical sense (the meat of something) can be unfamiliar and sounds formal unless seen in context.
Learning Tips
- Remember meat is usually uncountable when talking about food.
- Differentiate meat (animal flesh) from flesh (anatomy or literature).
- The phrase 'the meat of' is a metaphor meaning the main point.
- Learn common collocations: roast meat, grilled meat, sliced meat.
- Know that some plant-based phrases historically used 'meat' but are rare now.
- Watch for regional preferences in naming specific meats.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'meat'?
A.The flesh of animals used as food
B.A type of vegetable
C.A dairy product
D.A type of grain
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'meat'?
A.He enjoys cooking meat on the grill.
B.The cake is made of meat and chocolate.
C.She drank a glass of meat for breakfast.
D.The soup is too spicy for meat to be added.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'meat'?
A.Vegetable
B.Fruit
C.Animal flesh
D.Dairy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'meat'?
A.Fish
B.Tofu
C.Bread
D.Chicken
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'meat' is involved?
A.At the restaurant, they serve a variety of dishes including chicken and fish.
B.At the grocery store, I saw different types of meat in the butcher section.
C.The barbecue was filled with delicious options for everyone.
D.She prefers vegetarian dishes over anything with protein.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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