Rice

/raɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A cereal grain that is the seed of the grass species Oryza sativa or Oryza glaberrima, widely cultivated as a staple food for a large part of the world's human population.

We had rice with our stir-fried vegetables for dinner.

The cooked or processed form of this grain, typically served as a side dish or main course in various cuisines.

She prefers brown rice over white rice for its nutritional benefits.

A dish prepared with rice as the main ingredient, sometimes combined with other ingredients.

The restaurant is famous for its paella, a Spanish rice dish with seafood.

Etymology

From Old French 'ris', from Latin 'oryza', from Greek 'oryza', of unknown origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

rice paper

A thin, translucent paper made from the pith of the rice plant, used for wrapping or crafting.

rice bowl

A bowl typically used to serve rice; can also refer to a region or work territory where one earns a living.

rice sack

A large sack used to hold rice, often seen in markets.

Related Words

paddy

A wet rice field, or a field flooded for cultivation of rice.

sushi

A Japanese dish consisting of vinegar-flavored rice combined with various ingredients, typically seafood and vegetables.

risotto

An Italian rice dish cooked with broth to create a creamy consistency.

Slang Meanings

To rice someone

We decided to rice him when we caught him cheating in the game.

To add more fluff to something, especially in cooking

She riced the potatoes to give them a lighter texture.