biltong: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Specialized/Regional (common in South African English; understood in culinary/travel contexts elsewhere).
Quick answer
What does “biltong” mean?
A form of dried, cured meat, typically beef, originating from Southern Africa, similar to jerky but usually thicker, air-dried rather than smoked, and seasoned with vinegar and spices.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A form of dried, cured meat, typically beef, originating from Southern Africa, similar to jerky but usually thicker, air-dried rather than smoked, and seasoned with vinegar and spices.
A traditional South African preserved food product; can sometimes refer to similar dried meat products made from other game or ostrich; culturally significant as a staple and snack.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is used identically in both varieties when referring to the South African product. In the UK, it might be encountered in specialty food shops or South African expat contexts. In the US, it is less common than 'jerky' and is typically found in gourmet or international food contexts.
Connotations
In both varieties, connotes a specific South African origin. In the UK, may carry connotations of Commonwealth connection or specialty food. In the US, it is often seen as a more artisanal or exotic alternative to mainstream jerky.
Frequency
Low frequency in general international English, but high frequency within South Africa and among its diaspora.
Grammar
How to Use “biltong” in a Sentence
[Someone] eats biltong.[Someone] makes biltong from [meat].Biltong is made by [process].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “biltong” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- We brought back some biltong from our holiday in Cape Town.
- He sliced the biltong thinly for the platter.
American English
- I tried biltong at a world food market; it's less sweet than jerky.
- This brand imports its biltong directly from Namibia.
adjective
British English
- The biltong flavour was quite intense.
- They sell biltong spices and curing kits.
American English
- He's a fan of biltong-style beef sticks.
- The biltong recipe called for coriander and vinegar.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in contexts of import/export, specialty food retail, and agribusiness.
Academic
Appears in anthropological, culinary history, or food science texts discussing preservation methods or South African culture.
Everyday
Used when discussing food, snacks, travel experiences to Southern Africa, or by South Africans abroad.
Technical
Used in food technology regarding meat preservation methods like dry-curing, moisture content, and food safety standards.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “biltong”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “biltong”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “biltong”
- Pronouncing it as /baɪl.tɔːŋ/ (like 'bile').
- Confusing it with jerky and using the terms interchangeably.
- Misspelling as 'billtong' or 'biltongue'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While both are dried meats, biltong is typically air-dried, thicker, and seasoned with vinegar and spices like coriander. Jerky is usually thinner, smoked, and often has a sweeter or smokier flavor profile.
It comes from the Dutch words 'bil' (buttock/rump) and 'tong' (strip/tongue), essentially meaning 'rump strip'.
Yes, while beef is most common, it is also traditionally made from game meats like kudu, springbok, or ostrich.
Yes, the curing and drying process preserves it and makes it safe for consumption without further cooking, provided it is prepared correctly to eliminate pathogens.
A form of dried, cured meat, typically beef, originating from Southern Africa, similar to jerky but usually thicker, air-dried rather than smoked, and seasoned with vinegar and spices.
Biltong is usually specialized/regional (common in south african english; understood in culinary/travel contexts elsewhere). in register.
Biltong: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɪl.tɒŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɪl.tɑːŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly. Associated with the phrase "a taste of South Africa".”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: "BILL paid for a TONGue of dried meat" – connecting the sound to the idea of a (beef) tongue, a cut sometimes used.
Conceptual Metaphor
FOOD AS CULTURAL HERITAGE (biltong represents tradition and national identity).
Practice
Quiz
What is a key difference between biltong and typical American beef jerky?