Langimage
English

catsup

|cat/sup|

B1

/ˈkætsəp/

tomato-based condiment

Etymology
Etymology Information

'catsup' originates from the Chinese dialect word 'kê-tsiap,' which referred to a fermented fish sauce.

Historical Evolution

'kê-tsiap' transformed into the Malay word 'kecap,' and eventually became the modern English word 'catsup' through trade and cultural exchange.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it referred to a fermented fish sauce, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a tomato-based condiment.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a thick, spicy sauce made primarily from tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices, used as a condiment.

She added a dollop of catsup to her fries.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/03/04 23:50