What does meringue mean?
Meringue is a light confection made by whipping egg whites with sugar until they become firm and glossy, then baking or drying the mixture until crisp. It appears in many forms: piped peaks, domed tops on pies and tarts, shells filled with cream or fruit, and the layered dessert known as pavlova. The simplest meringue contains egg whites and sugar, while variants may include cream, lemon juice, or other flavorings. Its airy texture contrasts with the dense or rich desserts it often accompanies. As a verb, especially in British English, meringue means to cover or decorate food with this mixture. Although its precise historical origin is not entirely clear, the English word comes through French.
A baked confection made from whipped egg whites and sugar, or the egg-white-and-sugar mixture used as a topping or filling.
"A little meringue was added to the dessert table."
The uncountable use refers to the mixture; the countable use usually refers to a baked portion or topping.
To cover or decorate food with meringue.
"The pastry chef meringued the tart just before serving it."
Chiefly used in British English and especially in professional culinary contexts.
Used for individual baked portions, shells, or toppings of meringue.
"The shop sells mini meringues with whipped cream and seasonal fruit."
Meringue turns just egg whites and sugar into a dramatically airy dessert through whipping and heat.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of meringue
The English word entered from French meringue, which is the established source of the culinary term. The deeper origin of the French word is disputed, and it may reflect the name of a historical cook or pastry chef rather than a word built from ordinary French roots. Cognates in other modern languages mostly preserve the borrowed culinary term rather than an independently shared inherited root.
How meringue is actually used
The word is common in British and American English. In British usage, the verb meaning to cover or decorate something with meringue is also common; it is less frequent in general American usage.
Easily confused with meringue
Meringue is made from whipped egg whites and sugar, while marmalade is a preserve made from citrus fruit.