marinade
UK: ˌmærɪˈneɪd | US: ˈmærəˌneɪd
n. a seasoned liquid mixture in which food is soaked to enhance flavor or tenderness
vt. to soak food in a marinade
The word "marinade" traces back to the Spanish "marinar" (to pickle in brine), derived from Latin "marinus." Early marinades used salty seawater or vinegar (a sour liquid) to preserve and flavor meat, especially fish. Over time, the term expanded to include any flavorful soaking liquid, even without salt or vinegar. The suffix "-ade" generalizes the concept into a noun, much like "lemonade" transforms "lemon" into a drink.
The chef prepared a spicy marinade for the grilled chicken.
Always marinate tofu for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Her secret marinade includes soy sauce, garlic, and honey.
The fish was left in the citrus marinade overnight.
Avoid over-marinating delicate seafood, as it can become mushy.