Achiote is a word that you may have heard before or seen on restaurant menus. But what exactly does it mean? In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of achiote, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Achiote is a spice made from the seeds of the achiote tree, also known as Bixa orellana. The seeds are ground into a paste or powder and used as a seasoning in Latin American, Caribbean, and Filipino cuisine. Achiote is also known by other names such as annatto, lipstick tree, and roucou.
Origin
The achiote tree is native to tropical regions of South America and the Caribbean. It has been used for thousands of years by indigenous people for its medicinal and culinary properties. The use of achiote spread to other parts of the world during the colonial period when Spanish and Portuguese explorers brought it back to Europe and introduced it to their colonies in the Americas and Asia.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, achiote is defined as “the reddish pulp that surrounds the seeds of a tropical American tree (Bixa orellana) of the family Bixaceae, used as a dye and a condiment especially in Latin American and Filipino cuisines.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines achiote as “a yellowish-red dye or coloring matter obtained from the seeds of the achiote tree, used in food, cosmetics, and textiles.”
Associations
Achiote is commonly used in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine to add flavor and color to dishes such as rice, stews, and meats. It is also used in Filipino cuisine to make dishes such as chicken adobo and pancit. Achiote is known for its earthy and slightly sweet flavor, as well as its vibrant red-orange color.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for achiote include annatto, lipstick tree, and roucou.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for achiote, as it is a specific spice with unique properties.
The same root words
Achiote is derived from the Nahuatl word achiotl, which means “red dye.” This word is also the origin of the Spanish word achote, which is another name for achiote.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences using the word achiote:
- I love the flavor and color that achiote adds to my chicken adobo.
- The achiote paste gave the rice a beautiful red-orange hue.
- The lipstick tree, also known as achiote, is native to South America.
- The textile was dyed with a natural pigment made from achiote seeds.