What is the origin and etymology of the word 'meat'?

meat

/miːt/

[C/U] Both

In its primary sense, the word refers to animal tissue as sustenance. While technically inclusive of all animal flesh, in common usage it often excludes fish and seafood, which are categorized separately in culinary contexts. When used metaphorically, it describes the 'substance' or 'core' of an idea. It implies a contrast between superficial fluff (the introduction or packaging) and the dense, valuable information that provides actual utility or weight to a discussion.

Uncountable when referring to animal flesh as a general food category ('I don't eat meat'). Countable when discussing specific types or varieties of meat available at a butcher ('The shop sells a wide range of cured meats').

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Leo is in his room gaming while David is at the grocery store.

David Smith

Picking up dinner. You still eating meat or did you go full vegan on me?

Leo Smith

chill. i'm not trippin, just get the wings.

💡

David is trying to be 'hip' by questioning Leo's diet, while Leo uses AAVE-influenced slang ('trippin') to tell his father he isn't overreacting or changing his habits, keeping the focus on whether meat (the wings) should be purchased.

Meanings

Nounanimal flesh

The flesh of an animal, especially a mammal or bird, used as food.

"She decided to stop eating meat for environmental reasons."

Nouncore substance

The essential, most important, or substantial part of something.

"The first three chapters are just an introduction; the real meat of the argument begins in chapter four."

Etymology

Derived from Old English mete, which originally referred to any kind of food or sustenance in general. Over time, the meaning narrowed specifically to animal flesh, while the broader term for food was largely replaced by the word food itself.

Related Words

flesh vegetable

Last Updated: June 8, 2026•Report an Error