baste

UK: beɪst | US: beɪst

Definition

  1. vt. to moisten (meat or other food) with liquid (e.g., fat or juices) during cooking

  2. vt. to sew loosely with long stitches as a temporary seam

Structure
bas <to beat>te <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "baste" has two distinct etymological origins, leading to its dual meanings:

  1. Culinary sense: Likely derived from Old French "basser" (to moisten), influenced by Germanic roots related to "beating" or "anointing." The morpheme "bas" reflects the action of applying liquid, while "-te" serves as a verb-forming suffix.
  2. Sewing sense: Traced to Old Norse "beysta" (to beat or thrash), referencing the quick, loose stitching motion resembling light beating. Here, "bas" retains the "beat" connotation, while "-te" again functions as a verb suffix.
Examples

  1. She basted the turkey with butter every 30 minutes to keep it juicy.

  2. Before final stitching, baste the fabric to check the fit.

  3. The chef demonstrated how to baste a roast properly.

  4. He quickly basted the hem to hold it in place.

  5. Basting prevents the meat from drying out in the oven.