Definition

1. Noun:
   • A substance, typically a sauce, relish, or spice, that is added to food to impart a specific flavor or to complement the dish. Condiments are usually served separately and added according to personal taste.

Usage

• Condiments are used to season or flavor food. They are not typically ingredients cooked into the dish but are added at the table.
• Common examples include mustard, ketchup, mayonnaise, soy sauce, and hot sauce.
• The word is a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • Please pass the condiments; I'd like some mustard for my hot dog.
  • The restaurant offers a variety of condiments, including relish and horseradish.
  • Salt and pepper are the most basic condiments.

Advanced Usage

• "Condiment of choice": A phrase used to indicate a preferred seasoning.
  • For many, ketchup is the condiment of choice for french fries.
• In a broader or metaphorical sense, "condiment" can sometimes refer to something that adds interest or flavor to an otherwise plain situation.
  • His witty remarks were the perfect condiment to the otherwise dull meeting. (Note: This is a figurative, less common usage.)

Variants and Related Words

• Condimental (adjective): Pertaining to or of the nature of a condiment.
  • The condimental sauces were arranged on a tray.

Synonyms

• Seasoning: A substance used to add flavor to food (can be broader, including herbs and spices used in cooking).
• Relish: A highly seasoned sauce or pickle eaten with plain food to add flavor.
• Sauce: A liquid or semi-liquid substance served with food to add moisture and flavor.

Antonyms

• Bland food: Food without seasoning or flavor.
• Staple: A basic or primary food item (e.g., rice, bread), as opposed to an accessory flavoring.

Phrases and Collocations

• Table condiment: A condiment placed on the table for diners to use.
  • Salt, pepper, and vinegar are classic table condiments.
• Condiment set / Condiment tray: A container or tray holding various condiments.
  • The waiter brought over a condiment set with ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise.

Noun

1. a preparation (a sauce or relish or spice) to enhance flavor or enjoyment
   • mustard and ketchup are condiments