RANCID Meaning and
Definition
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Rancid is an adjective that refers to something that has gone bad or has spoiled, typically due to the decomposition or deterioration of fats, oils, or organic matter. It describes an unpleasant, foul, or offensive smell, taste, or odor that indicates the food or substance has become unfit for consumption.
The term rancid is often used to describe the state of food that has been exposed to air or heat for an extended period, causing the fats in the food to oxidize. This oxidation process alters the structure of the fats, releasing volatile compounds known as free fatty acids, which produce the characteristic rancid smell and taste. Rancidity can occur in various products including oils, butter, nuts, seeds, and even processed foods containing these ingredients.
Beyond food, rancid can also describe anything that has gone bad or turned putrid, such as spoiled meat or other organic matter. It can be used metaphorically to describe something that is morally or socially repulsive or highly offensive.
In summary, rancid is an adjective used to describe food or substances that have become spoiled, typically due to fat decomposition. It denotes an unpleasant smell, taste, or odor and can also refer to anything that has gone bad or turned repulsive.
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Having a sharp disagreeable odor and taste, characterizing an oil or other fat which is decomposing.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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Having a rank unpleasant odour or smell, particularly applied to fats and oils in bad condition; musty.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RANCID
Etymology of RANCID
The word "rancid" has its origins in the Latin word "rancidus", which means "rank or smelling strong". It is derived from the verb "rancere", which means "to stink". From Latin, it passed into Old French as "rancide" and later entered Middle English as "rauncest". Over time, it evolved into the modern form "rancid", retaining its meaning of something spoiled or having a strong, disagreeable smell or taste.
Similar spelling words for RANCID
- ROINST,
- Reincit,
- runniest,
- rainiest,
- Rinsed,
- ranced,
- rnaset2,
- renest,
- RNAWST,
- blue-rinsed,
- renuzit,
- RNST,
- reincite.
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