word
Food
Japanese
Umami
oo-MAH-mee
/uːˈmɑːmiː/Listen
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Syllable breakdown
Umami
Dictionary meaning
A savory, meaty taste considered the fifth basic taste alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter.
History and origin
Japanese
Examples
- Parmesan, soy sauce, and mushrooms are all high in umami compounds.
Pronunciation tips
Three syllables. Stress on second syllable. From Japanese 'umai' (delicious) + 'mi' (taste).
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