Flour

Definition

Flour is a noun that refers to a fine powder made by grinding grains, seeds, or roots, primarily used in baking and cooking. It is typically made from wheat but can also be derived from other grains, such as rice, corn, or oats.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈflaʊɚ/
• Respelling: FLOU-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈflaʊə/
• Respelling: FLOU-uh

Etymology

The word "flour" originates from Middle English "flour" or "flor," meaning "flower" or "the finest part of something," derived from Old French "fleur," meaning "blossom" or "the finest." The term was adopted to describe the finest part of ground grain, especially wheat.

Derivatives

• Floury (adjective)
• Self-raising flour (noun)
• Flourless (adjective)
• Flouring (verb, archaic)
• Flour mill (noun)

Synonyms

• Powder
• Meal
• Dust

Antonyms

• Whole grain
• Kernel
• None

Usage

The term "flour" is used primarily in cooking and baking contexts. For example, "The recipe calls for two cups of all-purpose flour," or "He runs a mill that produces whole grain flour."

Related Terms

• Grain: The seed or fruit of cereal plants used for food.
• Baking: The process of cooking food using prolonged dry heat, often with flour as a key ingredient.
• Mill: A device or building used for grinding grains into flour.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A fine powder made from grinding grains or seeds: Refers to the primary product used in making bread, pastries, and other baked goods.
  • Example: "She sifted the flour before adding it to the batter."
• The finest part of a substance: Denotes the most refined portion obtained through processing.
  • Example: "Wheat flour is commonly used in baking."