Pronunciation: [mˈiːlinəs] (IPA) 
The word "mealiness" is spelled /ˈmiːlinəs/. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word helps explain its spelling. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "e" sound, followed by a short "i" sound. The second syllable has a long "e" sound, followed by a schwa sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound and an "s" sound. The word refers to the quality of being dry and crumbly, like a mealy apple.
Mealiness is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being mealy. Mealy, in turn, can be defined as having a grainy, coarse, or granular texture or consistency. This term is commonly used to describe certain characteristics of food, particularly fruits, vegetables, or baked goods.
In the context of fruits or vegetables, mealiness is often used to describe a dry, powdery, or sandy texture when the flesh breaks down easily into a mealy or flour-like consistency. This can be observed in apples, pears, peaches, or potatoes, for example, when they become overripe or have been stored for a long period of time. In such cases, the mealiness of the fruit or vegetable is often associated with a loss of juiciness, crispness, or firmness, making it less desirable to eat.
Mealiness can also be used to describe the texture of baked goods such as bread, cakes, or pastries. When these items are improperly prepared or have been stored improperly, they can develop a mealy texture, indicating that the grain structure has broken down and become coarse or gritty.
Overall, mealiness refers to a texture that is less pleasing to the palate, characterized by a dry, powdery, or coarse consistency. It is typically used to describe a loss of desirable qualities such as juiciness, crispness, or firmness in food, particularly in fruits, vegetables, or baked goods.
Dryness and friableness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "mealiness" is derived from the noun "meal", which has Old English origins. In Old English, "melu" referred to ground or crushed grains, such as flour, grits, or coarse cereal. Over time, "meal" came to encompass the idea of any finely ground or powdered substance. The suffix "-ness" is added to "meal" to form "mealiness", which refers to the characteristic or quality of being like a meal or having a grainy texture.
