FRUITCAKE Meaning and
Definition
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Fruitcake is a noun that refers to a type of cake that is traditionally made with candied or dried fruits, nuts, and various spices. It is often served during festive occasions, particularly around Christmas time in many cultures.
The term "fruitcake" can also be used metaphorically to describe a person who is perceived as eccentric, odd, or mentally unstable. This usage emerged in the early 20th century and is commonly found in informal contexts like everyday conversations or humorous anecdotes.
The cake itself typically consists of a rich, dense batter made with flour, sugar, and butter, to which a mixture of chopped or diced fruits like raisins, currants, citron, and candied cherries or pineapple is added. Additionally, nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans are commonly included. The mixture is flavored with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and sometimes moistened with brandy, rum, or other spirits for better preservation and enhanced flavor.
Once the batter is mixed, it is baked slowly over a long period to ensure a moist and well-cooked cake. Some fruitcakes are further soaked in alcohol after they are baked, while others may be brushed with a sweet syrup or glaze.
Fruitcake is often associated with gift-giving traditions, as it is commonly packaged and exchanged among friends and family members during the holiday season. Its rich flavors, combined with the variety of fruits and nuts, make it a treat enjoyed by many, whether as a dessert, snack, or breakfast item.
Common Misspellings for FRUITCAKE
Etymology of FRUITCAKE
The word "fruitcake" has an interesting etymology that stems from the combination of two words: "fruit" and "cake".
The term "fruit" originated from the Latin word "fructus", meaning "enjoyment" or "production". In English, "fruit" refers to the sweet and fleshy product of a tree or plant that contains seeds. It is commonly associated with being colorful, delicious, and nutritious.
The word "cake" traces its roots back to the Old Norse word "kaka", which means "cake" or "bread-like food". It later developed into the Middle English word "cake" during the 13th century.
When these two words are combined, "fruitcake" refers to a type of cake that incorporates various candied or dried fruits, nuts, and sometimes spirits or spices into a sweet bread-like mixture.
Idioms with the word FRUITCAKE
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be (as) nutty as a fruitcake
The idiom "be (as) nutty as a fruitcake" means to describe someone as eccentric, crazy, or mentally unstable. It suggests that the person's behavior is unusual or irrational, similar to the notion of a fruitcake being loaded with nuts and other ingredients that make it bizarre or unconventional.
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(as) nutty as a fruitcake
The phrase "nutty as a fruitcake" is an idiom used to describe someone or something as extremely eccentric, crazy, or peculiar. It suggests that the person or object in question is behaving in a way that is beyond normal or conventional. The reference to a fruitcake, known for being dense and filled with various nuts and fruits, reinforces the idea of craziness or unusual behavior.
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nuttier than a fruitcake
The idiom "nuttier than a fruitcake" is used to describe someone who is eccentric, crazy, or irrational. It implies that the person's behavior or ideas are far beyond what is considered normal or sane. The comparison to a fruitcake, a dense cake filled with nuts and dried fruits, emphasizes the extreme level of madness or peculiarity.
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nutty as a fruitcake
The idiom "nutty as a fruitcake" means someone or something that is extremely eccentric, eccentric, or peculiar in their behavior or characteristics. It suggests that the person or thing is a little crazy or mentally unstable.
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fruitcake
a crazy or eccentric person
Similar spelling words for FRUITCAKE
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