Meaning & Definition of word "Mince"
Mince
/mɪns/
noun:
- 1. Finely chopped or ground food, especially meat.
- Example: The recipe called for a pound of minced beef.
verb:
- 1. To cut up or grind food, especially meat, into very small pieces.
- Example: She decided to mince the garlic to incorporate it into the sauce.
- 2. To speak in a vague or indirect way, often to soften the impact of what is being said.
- Example: He didn't mince his words when he criticized the team's performance.
- 3. To walk with short, quick steps, often in a prim or affected manner.
- Example: She minced her way across the stage in her new high heels.
Etymology
●Middle English, from Old French 'mençer' (to chop).
Common Phrases and Expressions
mince words:
To speak indirectly or with hesitation.
Related Words
minced:
Chopped into small pieces.
mincer:
A utensil for cutting food into small pieces.
Slang Meanings of mince
Meaning: To not be straightforward or to be overly cautious in one's speech.
● Example Sentence: Stop mincing around and tell me what you really think.
Meaning: To behave in a way that is perceived as effeminate or overly delicate.
● Example Sentence: He minces about the place like he owns it.