side-dish

A family passes a bowl of steamed vegetables as a side-dish at dinner.

Definition

Noun: - A food served in addition to the main dish: A "side-dish" is a portion of food that accompanies the main course of a meal, typically served in a separate bowl or plate. It is often smaller in quantity and intended to complement or contrast with the main dish in flavor, texture, or nutritional value.

Usage Examples

• (The roasted vegetables were served alongside the chicken.)
• (The coleslaw was an additional item served with the main meat.)
• (Customers can choose from various accompaniments to their main meal.)

Advanced Usage

• "As a side-dish": Used to specify the role of a food item in a meal.
  • These sautéed mushrooms are best served as a side-dish with steak. (They are intended to be an accompaniment.)
• "Side-dish of [food]": A common structure to indicate what the side-dish consists of.
  • He requested a side-dish of mashed potatoes with gravy. (He wanted a portion of mashed potatoes alongside his main dish.)

Variants and Related Words

• Side (n): A shortened form of "side-dish" used informally.
  • I'll have the burger with a side of fries. (I want a hamburger with French fries as an accompaniment.)
• Dish (n): Refers to a specific type of food or a container for serving food, but not specifically an accompaniment.
  • This dish is a classic Italian pasta. (This food item is a type of Italian pasta.)
• Accompaniment (n): A more formal term for something that is served with the main dish.
  • The wine was a perfect accompaniment to the cheese. (The wine complemented the cheese.)

Synonyms

• Accompaniment: A food item served with the main dish.
  • The roasted potatoes were a delicious accompaniment to the lamb.
• Sides (pl): A plural form used informally to refer to side-dishes.
  • We ordered several sides, including garlic bread and onion rings.

Related Idioms

• "On the side": Served separately from the main dish, often used for sauces or condiments, but can refer to side-dishes.
  • She asked for the dressing on the side. (The dressing was served separately.)
• "A side order of [food]": A phrase used to request a side-dish in a restaurant.
  • He ordered a side order of sweet potato fries. (He requested a portion of sweet potato fries as an accompaniment.)