burger

UK: ˈbɜːɡə | US: ˈbɜːrɡər

Definition

  1. n. a flat, round patty of ground meat, typically beef, served in a bun as a sandwich.

  2. n. (informal) short for "hamburger."

Structure
burg <town, fortress (from German "Burg") + er<noun suffix (agent or inhabitant)>
Etymology

The word "burger" originates from "Hamburger," named after Hamburg, Germany, where the dish was popularized. The "-er" suffix denotes association (e.g., "Londoner"). Over time, "burger" was clipped from "hamburger" and generalized to refer to any similar sandwich, regardless of meat type (e.g., "cheeseburger," "veggieburger"). The morpheme "burg" reflects the Germanic root for "fortified town," though its connection to the food is purely historical.

Examples

  1. She ordered a cheeseburger with extra pickles.

  2. The vegan burger tasted surprisingly like beef.

  3. He grilled burgers for the backyard barbecue.

  4. This restaurant serves the best chicken burgers in town.

  5. A classic burger comes with lettuce, tomato, and onions.