Dairy

Definition

Dairy refers to products made from the milk of mammals, such as cows, goats, and sheep. It also refers to the place where milk is processed and products like butter, cheese, and yogurt are produced. The term can also describe an establishment involved in the production, processing, and sale of milk products.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdɛri/
• Respelling: DAIR-ee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈdeəri/
• Respelling: DAIR-ee

The pronunciation of "dairy" is similar in both American and British English, with minor variations in vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "dairy" comes from Middle English "deyerie," from "deye," which means "dairymaid" or "female servant." It is related to the Old English word "daege," which referred to someone who kneaded bread. Over time, the term evolved to describe places and processes related to the production of milk and milk products.

Derivatives

• Dairyman (noun)
• Dairymaid (noun)
• Dairy-free (adjective)
• Dairying (noun)
• Dairy farm (noun)

Synonyms

• Creamery
• Milk products
• Dairy farm

Antonyms

• Non-dairy
• Meat products
• Vegan

Usage

The term "dairy" is used widely in agriculture, food production, and dietary contexts. It refers to both the milk products consumed as part of human diets, such as milk, cheese, butter, and cream, and the establishments that produce and sell these items. It is also used in describing dietary habits, such as “dairy-free,” referring to food products that do not contain milk or milk derivatives, which are important for those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.

Related Terms

• Lactose: A sugar found in milk and dairy products.
• Pasteurization: The process of heating milk to kill harmful bacteria.
• Dairy farming: The agricultural practice of raising livestock for milk production.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A place where milk is processed or sold: Refers to an establishment or farm where milk and milk products are produced and distributed.
  • Example: "The family runs a successful dairy that supplies milk to the local community."
• Products made from milk: Refers to milk-based items, including cheese, yogurt, and butter.
  • Example: "She prefers to avoid dairy due to lactose intolerance."

Adjective

• Relating to milk or milk products: Describes anything associated with or made from milk.
  • Example: "The store sells a wide range of dairy products."