cole-slaw
Definition
Noun: - A salad dish: "cole-slaw" (also commonly spelled "coleslaw") refers to a salad made primarily of finely shredded raw cabbage, often mixed with a dressing (such as mayonnaise, vinegar, or vinaigrette) and sometimes other ingredients like carrots, onions, or herbs. It is typically served as a side dish, especially with barbecue or fried foods.
Usage Examples
- (A serving of shredded cabbage salad.)
- (The ingredients and method for making this salad.)
- (A common food for outdoor gatherings.)
Advanced Usage
- "Cole-slaw" vs. "coleslaw": The spelling "coleslaw" is far more common in modern English, while "cole-slaw" is an older or less frequent variant. Both refer to the same dish.
- He prefers the traditional spelling "cole-slaw" in his cookbook. (Using the less common form.)
- "To dress cole-slaw": To add a dressing to the shredded cabbage mixture.
- You should dress the cole-slaw just before serving to keep it crisp. (Add the dressing immediately before eating.)
Variants and Related Words
- Coleslaw (n): The standard modern spelling of "cole-slaw".
- I made a large bowl of coleslaw for the party. (Same dish, common spelling.)
- Slaw (n): A shortened form of "coleslaw", often used informally or in compound terms like "broccoli slaw" or "apple slaw".
- This restaurant serves a tangy vinegar slaw. (A type of shredded salad, not necessarily cabbage.)
- Cole (n): An archaic or botanical term for plants of the cabbage family (e.g., kale, broccoli, cabbage). This is the root word in "coleslaw".
- The word "cole" appears in "coleslaw" and "kale". (The historical meaning of the plant group.)
Synonyms
- Cabbage salad: A descriptive term for coleslaw, emphasizing its main ingredient.
- We served a simple cabbage salad with dinner. (Similar to coleslaw but may lack dressing.)
- Slaw: A general term for any shredded salad, often used interchangeably with "coleslaw".
- Would you like some slaw with your hot dog? (A casual synonym.)
Related Idioms