vinaigrette

UK: ˌvɪn.eɪˈɡret | US: ˌvɪn.eɪˈɡret

Definition
  1. n. a sauce or dressing made from oil, vinegar, and seasonings, often used on salads.

Structure
vin <wine>aigre <sour>ette <diminutive suffix>
Etymology

vinaigrette = vin<wine> + aigre<sour> + ette<diminutive suffix>

  • vin (from French "vin," meaning "wine")
  • aigre (from French "aigre," meaning "sour" or "sharp")
  • ette (a French diminutive suffix indicating smallness or lightness)

Etymology Origin:
The word "vinaigrette" originates from French, combining "vin" (wine) and "aigre" (sour), referring to the acidic base of the dressing (originally wine vinegar). The suffix "-ette" adds a sense of lightness or refinement, reflecting its culinary use. The term evolved from describing a small, sharp sauce to its modern meaning as a salad dressing.

Examples
  1. She drizzled a tangy vinaigrette over the fresh greens.

  2. The chef prepared a lemon-herb vinaigrette for the summer salad.

  3. A classic vinaigrette requires just oil, vinegar, and mustard.

  4. He prefers balsamic vinaigrette over creamy dressings.

  5. The recipe suggests whisking the vinaigrette until emulsified.