chow-chow
Definition
- Noun:
- A Chinese breed of dog: "chow-chow" refers to a breed of medium-to-large dog originating from China, known for its distinctive blue-black tongue, thick double coat, and lion-like mane.
- A type of mixed fruit preserve: "chow-chow" also denotes a sweet or tangy preserve made from a mixture of fruits (such as orange peel, ginger, and other ingredients), often used as a condiment or dessert topping.
Usage Examples
Noun (dog):
- The chow-chow is a loyal but aloof breed, requiring early socialization. (A specific dog breed with a blue-black tongue.)
- She adopted a fluffy chow-chow from the rescue shelter. (A dog of this breed.)
Noun (preserve):
- My grandmother makes chow-chow every autumn from leftover citrus peels and ginger. (A mixed fruit preserve.)
- We spread chow-chow on toast for breakfast. (A sweet condiment.)
Advanced Usage
- "chow-chow" as a culinary term: In some regional cuisines (e.g., Southern United States), "chow-chow" can refer to a pickled relish made from chopped vegetables like cabbage, onions, and peppers, often served with meats or beans.
- He added chow-chow to his hot dog for extra tang. (A pickled vegetable relish.)
Variants and Related Words
- Chow (n, informal): a shortened form of "chow-chow" for the dog breed, or slang for food.
- My chow loves to play in the snow. (The dog breed.)
- Let's get some chow before the movie. (Slang for food.)
Synonyms
- Dog breed: Chinese dog, lion dog (informal), shar-pei (different breed but similar in appearance).
- Preserve: marmalade, conserve, relish (for the pickled version).
Related Idioms
- "Chow down": to eat heartily or quickly.
- After the hike, we all chowed down on sandwiches. (Ate eagerly.)
Notes on Usage
- The term "chow-chow" for the dog breed is often shortened to "chow" in casual speech, but "chow-chow" is the full, formal name.
- For the preserve, "chow-chow" may vary regionally; in India, it can refer to a type of squash or a mixed vegetable pickle.