collop: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Low (Obsolete/Archaic/Dialect)Archaic/Dialectal
Quick answer
What does “collop” mean?
A small slice or piece of meat, especially bacon or ham.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small slice or piece of meat, especially bacon or ham.
1. A fold of flesh on the body (archaic). 2. A slice or piece of anything (now rare or dialectal).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is largely obsolete in both varieties but persists marginally in some UK dialects (e.g., Northern England, Scotland). It is virtually extinct in contemporary American English.
Connotations
In UK dialect use, it carries rustic, traditional, or culinary connotations. In general use, it is simply archaic.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both. Slightly higher chance of being understood in parts of the UK than in the US.
Grammar
How to Use “collop” in a Sentence
a collop of [meat/flesh]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Only in historical/linguistic studies.
Everyday
Extremely rare; would be considered unusual or antiquated.
Technical
Not used in modern technical contexts.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “collop”
- Using it as a modern synonym for 'cutlet' or 'steak' without specifying it's a slice.
- Pronouncing it like 'collar' (/'kɒlə/).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered archaic or dialectal. You will not encounter it in everyday modern English.
Historically, yes—it could refer to a slice of anything or a fold of flesh. In its limited modern use, it is almost exclusively for meat.
For bacon/ham, 'rasher' (UK) or 'slice' is the modern equivalent. For other meats, 'slice' or 'cutlet'.
Primarily for reading older literature or understanding regional dialects. It is not a priority word for active use.
A small slice or piece of meat, especially bacon or ham.
Collop is usually archaic/dialectal in register.
Collop: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒləp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɑːləp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"not worth a collop" (archaic - of little value)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a COLLeague OPening a packet of bacon COLLOPS (slices).
Conceptual Metaphor
PIECE OF MEAT IS A SLICE/UNIT (archaic).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'collop' most likely to be found today?