A "bloater" is a noun used to describe a type of fish, typically a herring, that has been salted and cold smoked, resulting in a distinct flavor and texture. It is commonly found in British cuisine, and is particularly popular in the coastal regions of England and Scotland.
The term "bloater" can also refer to the fish itself, which is typically elongated and silvery in appearance. It has a rich and intense flavor, with a slightly oily and smoky taste, due to the smoking process. The fish is often dried after salting, which gives it a firm and chewy texture. Bloaters are traditionally served whole, with their heads and tails intact.
The word "bloater" can also be used in a figurative sense to describe a person or thing that is inflated or swollen, usually in a negative context. This usage is derived from the verb form of "bloat," which means to swell or become distended. In this sense, a "bloater" refers to someone who is pretentious, pompous, or self-important.
As a food term, "bloater" is distinct from "kippers," which are also salted and smoked herrings, but are split open and butterfly-shaped. Additionally, the term is different from "bloaters" in the medical context, which refers to excessively swollen or distended body parts, often due to fluid retention or other underlying health conditions. So, context is important when interpreting the meaning of the term "bloater."
