Cake

Definition

Cake is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a sweet baked dessert typically made from flour, sugar, and other ingredients, often with added flavorings. As a verb, it means to cover or coat with a thick layer of something or to harden or form into a solid mass.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /keɪk/
• Respelling: kayk

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /keɪk/
• Respelling: kayk

Etymology

The word "cake" originates from the Old Norse word "kaka," meaning a baked flour-based item. This word entered Middle English as "kake" and evolved to refer specifically to a sweetened baked good. It is related to the Swedish "kaka" and German "Kuchen," meaning cake or pastry.

Derivatives

• Cakery (noun)
• Cakey (adjective)
• Fruitcake (noun)
• Cheesecake (noun)
• Pancake (noun)

Synonyms

• Dessert
• Pastry
• Tart

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "cake" is used to describe a sweet, baked dessert, as in "She baked a chocolate cake for his birthday." The verb form describes forming a layer or solid mass, for example, "Mud was caked on his shoes."

Related Terms

• Bakery: A place where cakes and other baked goods are made and sold.
• Pastry: A category of baked goods, typically sweet, which includes cakes.
• Frosting: A sweet, creamy topping applied to cakes.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A sweet, baked dessert made from flour, sugar, and other ingredients: Refers to a dessert commonly served on special occasions and available in various flavors and styles.
  • Example: "They served a slice of vanilla cake at the party."

Verb

• To coat or cover with a thick layer: Describes the process of forming a thick covering, often with mud or another material.
  • Example: "The dirt had caked onto his boots."
• To harden or form into a solid mass: Describes the action of something drying and solidifying.
  • Example: "The snow had caked in the tire treads."