nourishment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
nourishment Word Meanings
- food that provides what is needed for health
- the act of providing food
- something that sustains or encourages growth
nourishment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
nourishment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnʌrɪʃmənt/
US
/ˈnɜrɪʃmənt/
nourishment Word Etymology
Root: 'nourish' (from Latin 'nutrire') + -ment (suffix indicating action or process). Origin: Latin → Old French 'nourriture' → English. Memory Image: Imagine a healthy plant growing from rich soil, symbolizing how nourishment gives life and growth, much like food sustains us.
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 InputReal Context
Nourishment refers to the substances and experiences that sustain life. In everyday use it often means the food and nutrients that keep us physically healthy, but it can also describe something that supports growth, physical, emotional, or intellectual. The word tends to be more poetic or formal than nutrition, so you will hear it in phrases such as proper nourishment, spiritual nourishment, or nourishment for the mind. Its origin lies in the verb nourish from Latin nutrire, with the suffix -ment indicating action or process, and it appears in historical and medical writing; in modern speech many people substitute nutrition in casual contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Nourishment refers to sustenance and care, not a medical term; use with 'provide' or 'receive'
- pNourishment is usually uncountable; avoid 'a nourishment'
- pUse metaphorical senses (mind, soul) as well as physical ones
- pCompare with nutrition when talking about nutrients and diet
- pCommon collocations: provide nourishment, nourishment for the body, spiritual nourishment
- pPronounce as NOR-ihsh-muhnt
Common Misconceptions
- Nutrition and nourishment are the same thing.
- Nourishment can be used as a countable noun (a nourishment).
- Nourishment only means physical food, nothing metaphorical.
- You should always use nourishment when talking about nutrients scientifically.
- Nourishment sounds casual and modern; it is never formal.
Thinking Differences
Think of nourishment as the broader, often more poetic sense of sustenance than nutrition. Learners tend to treat it as a direct synonym for nutrition and use it only for food. Remember it can describe spiritual or intellectual sustenance as well, and it is usually uncountable.
Learning Tips
- Learn the broad sense: nourishment can be physical, mental, or spiritual.
- Remember not to use a nourishment; nourishment is usually uncountable.
- Compare nourishment with nutrition to choose the right word.
- Use phrases like provide nourishment and nourishment for the mind.
- Practice metaphoric uses (nourishment for ideas, soul, growth).
- Check pronunciation: NOR-ihsh-muhnt
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'nourishment'?
A.the food and drink that are necessary for health and growth
B.the process of gathering information
C.the act of teaching someone new skills
D.a type of clothing worn for special occasions
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'nourishment'?
A.The plant received ample nourishment from the rich soil.
B.Her laughter brought nourishment to the gloomy room.
C.He sought nourishment from the advice of his peers.
D.The movie provided nourishment for thought.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'nourishment'?
A.food
B.support
C.exercise
D.clothing
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'nourishment'?
A.support
B.sustenance
C.deprivation
D.growth
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'nourishment'?
A.Eating a balanced diet is essential for our well-being.
B.A child's development relies heavily on adequate nourishment.
C.A garden can provide fresh vegetables throughout the season.
D.Many people enjoy cooking new recipes every week.
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