ceviche: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal to informal, primarily culinary.
Quick answer
What does “ceviche” mean?
A dish of raw fish cured in citrus juices, typically lemon or lime, spiced with chili peppers, onions, and other seasonings.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A dish of raw fish cured in citrus juices, typically lemon or lime, spiced with chili peppers, onions, and other seasonings.
A national dish in various Latin American countries, especially Peru, often served as an appetizer. The acid in the citrus juice denatures the proteins in the fish, effectively 'cooking' it without heat.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The spelling is consistent. In the UK, it might be less familiar and described as 'a South American seafood dish.' In the US, especially in areas with Latin American influence, it is more commonly understood.
Connotations
In both regions, it connotes exotic cuisine, freshness, and often a degree of sophistication or culinary adventure.
Frequency
Low frequency in general English, but significantly higher in culinary, travel, and foodie contexts. More common in the US due to geographic proximity and cultural influence.
Grammar
How to Use “ceviche” in a Sentence
The chef prepared [ceviche] for the guests.We enjoyed [ceviche] at the beachside restaurant.This recipe is for [a classic Peruvian ceviche].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “ceviche” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The chef is marinating the fish for the ceviche.
- To achieve the right texture, the fish must be ceviched for precisely 20 minutes.
American English
- He's going to 'ceviche' the scallops in lime juice.
- We ceviched the fresh catch right on the boat.
adverb
British English
- The fish was prepared ceviche-style.
- She served the tuna, ceviche-like, with a citrus dressing.
American English
- He prepared the seafood ceviche-style.
- The salmon was served almost ceviche-like.
adjective
British English
- We opted for the ceviche-style prawns.
- A ceviche marinade is quite acidic.
American English
- This is a great ceviche recipe.
- The restaurant has a ceviche bar.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in restaurant, food import/export, or tourism industries.
Academic
Used in anthropology, cultural studies, or food history papers discussing Latin American cuisine.
Everyday
Used when discussing restaurants, travel experiences, or cooking.
Technical
Used in culinary arts, gastronomy, and food science contexts discussing the denaturing process via acid.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “ceviche”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “ceviche”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “ceviche”
- Misspelling: 'seviche', 'cebiche'.
- Mispronunciation: /ˈsɛvɪtʃ/ instead of /səˈviːtʃeɪ/.
- Using the word as a verb (e.g., 'I will ceviche the fish').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if prepared with very fresh, sushi-grade fish from a reputable source. The acid in the citrus juice kills many pathogens, but it does not eliminate all parasites, so quality of ingredients is paramount.
Sushi often features raw fish without a marinade (sashimi) or with rice. Ceviche specifically 'cooks' the fish in a citrus marinade and is typically served without rice, often with onions, chili, and coriander.
No. Only use very fresh, firm-fleshed ocean fish like sea bass, snapper, halibut, or corvina. Oily fish or delicate freshwater fish are not suitable.
Typically, yes. It is served chilled or at room temperature shortly after marinating, not hot.
A dish of raw fish cured in citrus juices, typically lemon or lime, spiced with chili peppers, onions, and other seasonings.
Ceviche is usually formal to informal, primarily culinary. in register.
Ceviche: in British English it is pronounced /səˈviːtʃeɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /səˈviːtʃeɪ/ or /seɪˈviːtʃeɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As fresh as a ceviche.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
CEVICHE: Citrus-EVoked Incredibly CHEwy fish. (The citrus 'cooks' it).
Conceptual Metaphor
FOOD IS AN EXPERIENCE / FRESHNESS IS PURITY.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary 'cooking' agent in a traditional ceviche?