caviar: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Traditionally and strictly, no. True caviar is the salted roe of wild sturgeon from the Caspian and Black Seas. However, commercially, the term is often extended to the roe of other sturgeon species (e.g., American), and sometimes to high-quality roe from other fish like salmon (often called 'salmon caviar'), though this is a marketing usage.

It is extremely rare and non-standard. You might encounter it in very specific culinary writing meaning 'to garnish with caviar,' but standard usage would be 'to top with caviar' or 'to serve with caviar.'

'Roe' is the general term for all fish eggs. 'Caviar' is a specific type of processed (salted) roe, historically and primarily from sturgeon, associated with luxury.

Due to the rarity of wild sturgeon (many species are endangered), the long time it takes for the fish to mature (up to 20 years), the labour-intensive harvesting and processing methods, and its historical status as a luxury good.

The salted roe (eggs) of sturgeon or other large fish, eaten as a delicacy.

Caviar is usually formal; used in culinary, luxury goods, and literary contexts. in register.

Caviar: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkæv.i.ɑː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæv.i.ɑːr/ | /ˌkæv.iˈɑːr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.