salmagundi
/ˌsæl.məˈɡʌn.di/ IELTSAcademic
noun
- 1.
A mixed dish made from many ingredients, especially chopped meat, fish, vegetables, and seasonings. It is now rare and often appears in historical writing.
- They served salmagundi at the old tavern.
- The recipe was a salmagundi of meats and pickles.
- 2.
A mixture of different things that do not seem to belong together. It can describe food, ideas, styles, or objects.
- The report was a salmagundi of facts and opinions.
- Her desk held a salmagundi of notes, pens, and receipts.
Adinary Nuance
Salmagundi is more old-fashioned and playful than words like mixture or mishmash. Writers use it when they want to stress a messy mix of many different things, not just a plain combination. It often sounds literary or humorous, so it is rare in everyday speech.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- món thập cẩm
- Spanish
- mezcolanza
- Chinese
- 大杂烩
- Japanese
- ごった煮
- Korean
- 잡탕
Etymology
The word came into English in the 1600s, probably from French or Italian. Its exact origin is unclear, but it has long meant a mixed collection of things.
Common phrases
a salmagundi ofa salmagundi dishliterary salmagundi
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is salmagundi a common word?
- No, it is quite rare today. People usually use mixture, medley, or hodgepodge instead.
- Is salmagundi formal or informal?
- It is not common in formal writing, but it can sound literary or playful.
- Can I use salmagundi for food?
- Yes, but mainly for old or special dishes with many ingredients.
- What is the difference between salmagundi and mixture?
- Mixture is neutral and common. Salmagundi sounds more old-fashioned and descriptive.