Is ambrosia a common word in everyday English?

No, it is uncommon in daily speech. People mostly use it in writing or as a dramatic compliment.

What is the difference between ambrosia and nectar?

Both are poetic words for something delicious. Ambrosia is more strongly linked to Greek gods and myth.

Can I use ambrosia for any tasty food?

Yes, but only when you want a very strong, poetic compliment. It sounds formal or literary.

← Dictionary

ambrosia

/æmˈbrəʊ.zi.ə/

IELTSAcademic

noun

1.
In Greek mythology, the food or drink of the gods. It was thought to give them immortality.
- The gods ate ambrosia on Olympus.
- Ancient stories call ambrosia the food of the gods.
2.
A food or drink that tastes extremely delicious. People use it in praise, often in writing.
- This dessert is pure ambrosia.
- Her homemade chai tasted like ambrosia.

Adinary Nuance

Ambrosia is stronger and more poetic than words like delicious or tasty. Writers use it when they want to praise food in a grand, literary way. It is not a common everyday word in speech.

In other languages

Vietnamese: thức ăn của thần
Spanish: comida de los dioses
Chinese: 神食
Japanese: 神々の食べ物
Korean: 신들의 음식

Etymology

The word comes from Greek ambrosia, meaning the food or drink of the gods. It entered English in the 16th century through classical writing.

Common phrases

food of the godspure ambrosiasweet as ambrosia

Synonyms

delicacy nectar delight

Related words

mythology feast savoury dessert

Frequently asked questions

Is ambrosia a common word in everyday English?: No, it is uncommon in daily speech. People mostly use it in writing or as a dramatic compliment.
What is the difference between ambrosia and nectar?: Both are poetic words for something delicious. Ambrosia is more strongly linked to Greek gods and myth.
Can I use ambrosia for any tasty food?: Yes, but only when you want a very strong, poetic compliment. It sounds formal or literary.