Fillet

/ˈfɪlɪt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A flat piece of meat or fish, often boneless and usually from a specific part of the animal.
He ordered a grilled salmon fillet for dinner.
A ribbon or band to be worn as a sign of distinction.
She wore a fillet in her hair for the ceremony.
A narrow strip or piece cut from something, typically meat.
The chef prepared a fillet of beef for the special dish.
verb
To remove the bones from (meat or fish).
The chef needs to fillet the fish before cooking it.
To cut into fillets.
He learned how to fillet the chicken properly.

Etymology

From Old French 'filet', meaning 'a little thread'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

fillet steak
A tender cut of beef from the loin, often grilled or pan-fried.
fillet of fish
A boneless piece of fish, typically prepared for cooking.
fillet knife
A flexible knife specifically designed for filleting fish and meat.

Related Words

debone
To remove bones from meat or fish.
butcher
A person who prepares and cuts meat for sale.

Slang Meanings

To fillet someone
He was filleted in the debate, leaving no argument unchallenged.
Fillet mignon
They celebrated with a fancy dinner featuring fillet mignon.