SHIP BISCUIT Meaning and
Definition
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Ship biscuit, also known as hardtack or sea biscuit, is a type of dry and durable biscuit that was historically used as a staple food item on long voyages, particularly aboard ships. It is a basic form of unleavened bread that is made from simple ingredients such as flour, water, and sometimes salt. The biscuit dough is typically mixed thoroughly, rolled out, and cut into small pieces, which are then baked until completely dry and hard.
Ship biscuits were highly valued due to their long shelf life, as they could be stored for months or even years without spoiling. They provided a reliable source of sustenance for sailors and soldiers during long sea voyages and military campaigns, where fresh food was often scarce or unavailable. The hardness and dryness of ship biscuits made them resistant to insects and fungal growth.
Although ship biscuits were nutritionally lacking and had a bland taste, they could be softened by being soaked in water, soup, or coffee. This method of consuming the biscuit was known as "biscuit torture" or "worming." Alternatively, ship biscuits were sometimes broken into pieces and used as a base for various toppings, such as cheese or meat.
Ship biscuits played a significant role in maritime history, as they were a vital component in the diets of sailors, explorers, and military personnel during the Age of Sail. While they are no longer commonly used as a sustenance item today, ship biscuits continue to be associated with the challenges and hardships faced by seafarers in the past.
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Hard coarse biscuit prepared for long keeping, and for use on board a ship.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SHIP BISCUIT
- ahip biscuit
- zhip biscuit
- xhip biscuit
- dhip biscuit
- ehip biscuit
- whip biscuit
- sgip biscuit
- sbip biscuit
- snip biscuit
- sjip biscuit
- suip biscuit
- syip biscuit
- shup biscuit
- shjp biscuit
- shkp biscuit
- shop biscuit
- sh9p biscuit
- sh8p biscuit
- shio biscuit
Etymology of SHIP BISCUIT
The term "ship biscuit" derives from the Old French word "biscuit", which translates to "twice-baked". In Latin, "bis" means "twice", and "coctus" means "cooked".
Originally, ship biscuits were called "biscuit bread" or "bread biscuits" in English, emphasizing their resemblance to bread. However, due to their long shelf life and frequent use as provisions on ships during long voyages, they eventually became known as "ship biscuits".
The process of making ship biscuits involved baking bread dough twice, removing most of the moisture to create a dry, hard, and durable biscuit. This method allowed the biscuits to last for months or even years without spoiling, making them ideal for long sea journeys.
Similar spelling word for SHIP BISCUIT
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