noun
tenderloin
noun
1
The most tender cut of meat from the loin, especially of beef or pork.
"We roasted a pork tenderloin for Sunday dinner."
2
An urban district known for vice or corruption, historically easy prey for police extortion.
"The old Tenderloin district was once notorious for its underground clubs."
How to Use Tenderloin
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsually a prime, soft cut of meat; occasionally the name of a rough, seedy city neighbourhood.
Common pairings
beef tenderloin
pork tenderloin
Word Forms
tenderloins plural
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Etymology
Formed from tender + loin, describing the loin cut prized for its tenderness.