melba: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, culinary
Quick answer
What does “melba” mean?
Referring to something named after the Australian soprano Dame Nellie Melba.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Referring to something named after the Australian soprano Dame Nellie Melba.
Used primarily in the names of specific foods (e.g., toast, peach) prepared in a style associated with Dame Nellie Melba.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both dialects use the term identically in culinary contexts. The word is equally uncommon in general speech in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes classic or somewhat dated haute cuisine.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both dialects; primarily encountered in historical or specialized culinary contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “melba” in a Sentence
[Noun] + melba (e.g., peach melba)[Melba] + noun (e.g., Melba toast)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “melba” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The dessert was prepared in the classic Melba style.
American English
- He ordered the Melba-style peaches.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Used in historical or musicological contexts referring to Dame Nellie Melba.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used when ordering or discussing specific dishes on a menu.
Technical
Used in professional culinary contexts to denote specific preparations.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “melba”
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “melba”
- Using 'melba' as a standalone noun (e.g., 'I'd like a melba').
- Capitalizing incorrectly (should be lowercase when part of a dish name: peach Melba).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency word used almost exclusively in specific culinary contexts.
It functions as a proper adjective modifying the noun 'peach', indicating the style of preparation.
Yes, when it directly refers to Dame Nellie Melba. In dish names like 'peach Melba', it is typically capitalised as it derives from a proper name, though some stylistic guides allow lowercase after established use.
No, 'melba' is not used as a verb in standard English.
Referring to something named after the Australian soprano Dame Nellie Melba.
Melba is usually formal, culinary in register.
Melba: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmelbə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmelbə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of MELBA as MEL (honey) + BA (a musical note). She was a sweet-voiced opera singer.
Conceptual Metaphor
NAME FOR STYLE (The name of a person becomes a template for a style of preparation).
Practice
Quiz
What is 'Melba' most directly associated with?