English · Food & Drink
marinate
/ˈmærɪneɪt/
[/ˈmærɪneɪt/]
soak food in a flavored liquid
Intermediateverb
Definition
To soak meat, fish, or vegetables in a flavored liquid before cooking, so they take in the flavor and become tender. The liquid is called a marinade.
Example
Marinate the chicken in lemon and herbs overnight.
Marinate the chicken in lemon and herbs overnight.
Etymology
From French 'mariner' (to pickle in brine), from Latin 'marinus' (of the sea).
How & Where It’s Used
Common in recipes; figuratively means letting an idea develop over time.