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noun

gelatin

JEH-luh-tihn

Gelatin (noun) means a flavorless protein made by boiling down animal collagen, used to thicken or set foods. Example: “Gelatin is what gives the dessert its wobbly texture.”

noun
1
A flavorless protein made by boiling down animal collagen, used to thicken or set foods.
"Gelatin is what gives the dessert its wobbly texture."
"Marshmallows are made with gelatin."

How to use gelatin

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA protein used to set jellies, marshmallows, and similar foods.

Common mistake

Gelatin is derived from animal collagen, so it is not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets; agar or pectin are common plant-based substitutes.

Word forms

gelatined past tense, gelatins plural, gelatins singular

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Test yourself on “gelatin” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ is what gives the dessert its wobbly texture.

Etymology

Borrowed from French gélatine, ultimately from Latin gelō, "to freeze" or "congeal."

Origin: Latin

E441 when used as a gelling agent

Rhymes for gelatin

See all rhymes for gelatin →

Frequently asked questions

What does “gelatin” mean?

The word “gelatin” means a flavorless protein made by boiling down animal collagen, used to thicken or set foods. In plain terms, a protein used to set jellies, marshmallows, and similar foods.

How do you pronounce “gelatin”?

“Gelatin” is pronounced JEH-luh-tihn (/ˈd͡ʒɛlətɪn/ in IPA).

How do you use “gelatin” in a sentence?

Here is “gelatin” used in a sentence: “Gelatin is what gives the dessert its wobbly texture.”

What is another word for “gelatin”?

Words with a similar meaning to “gelatin” include E441 when used as a gelling agent.

What part of speech is “gelatin”?

“Gelatin” is a noun.

Where does the word “gelatin” come from?

The word “gelatin” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French gélatine, ultimately from Latin gelō, "to freeze" or "congeal.".

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial