Definition

Noun: 1. A shaped mass of baked bread, typically baked in one piece and usually sliced before eating: This refers to the complete, whole unit of bread as it is produced by baking a single quantity of dough in a pan or on a hearth. It is the standard form in which bread is sold and stored before being cut into individual slices or pieces for consumption.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • I need to buy a loaf of bread from the bakery for our sandwiches.
  • She placed the fresh loaf of bread on the counter to cool.
  • This recipe makes one large loaf of bread.

Advanced Usage

• "Half a loaf of bread": Used to indicate a portion of a standard loaf, often purchased pre-sliced or cut.
  • Since it's just me, I only bought half a loaf of bread.
• Referring to the state or type: Often modified by adjectives describing its condition (e.g., , , ).

Variants and Related Words

• Loaf (n): A common shortened form of "loaf of bread." While "loaf" can refer to other shaped masses (e.g., ), in the context of food, it is widely understood to mean a loaf of bread.
  • Could you pick up a loaf on your way home?
• Bread loaf (n): A less common but understandable variant with the same meaning.

Synonyms

• Bread loaf: (See variant above).
• Boule: A round, crusty loaf, specifically a French style.
• Batch of bread: Can refer to the quantity produced from one baking, which often results in one or more loaves.

Related Phrases

• The best thing since sliced bread: An idiom praising a new invention or idea. It references the convenience of pre-sliced loaves of bread.
  • He thinks his new phone is the best thing since sliced bread.
• Break bread: An idiom meaning to share a meal, often implying fellowship.
  • The leaders met to break bread and discuss the treaty.

Noun

1. a shaped mass of baked bread that is usually sliced before eating